Wairoa

Wairoa is a town in New Zealand’s North Island, located in the Hawkes Bay region; Wairoa township spreads itself along the Wairoa River. Wairoa is the closest town to the country’s third largest national park. This stunningly beautiful Te Urewera National Park holds within it 225,000 ha of untouched native forest. Local guides for hiking, hunting and fishing in Te Urewera can be found in Wairoa, and Freedom Camping is allowed in the district.

The Wairoa River winds itself along the banks of Wairoa, and it is here you can enjoy a leisurely river stroll and visit the town’s many interesting sites. Try the local museum for early information on the town’s history between the district’s early Maori and Europeans. At Nuhaka, the Maori meeting house Kahungunu’s intricate carvings depict the local iwi (tribe).

Or visit Bremdale, for its old world charm, surfing and fishing at Blacks Beach and at Whakaki Lagoon you will find seabirds and wading birds in their natural wetland habitat. Mahanga Beach is a popular white sandy beach where visitors can fish, swim, surf, boogie board, windsurf and walk along its lovely shoreline. Fresh water swimming? Try Lake Rotopounamu or take a boat out and try your luck at fishing.