Distances between towns and trip planner

Things to do in Wairoa

People said that Wairoa is the simple choice for better and happier life. It is friendly space, really close to the Urewera National park, so it gives a lot of possibilities. It is settled along the banks of Wairoa River, which name town has. If you are interested in history, this is the place for you because it has Maori and European sights from the past. Accommodation and eating is cheap and there are a lot of places to choose.

1. Lake Waikaremoana, Wairoa

Lake Waikaremoana, Wairoa

You came to the place where the darkest sky in the world is. It is the international dark sky resort, the best place for stargazing in the world. Take one of the tours and enjoy in romantic show of the stars. There are professional equipment, like telescopes and passionate guides and experts for the best stargazing experience. Or if you rather want privacy, take a gondola on Lake Waikaremoana high into the mountains and enjoy.

3. Portland Lighthouse, Wairoa

Portland Lighthouse, Wairoa

For history lovers there are plenty of things to see. First, there is Portland Lighthouse which was used from 1878 until the mid-1950's. It is a solid core lighthouse, but it moves from his first place, Portland Island to the spot where is today. Also, uniquely carved memorial is the largest in New Zeeland. You can arrange your tour. And, for the end of history and natural journey, 40 km northeast are More Reserve and Morere Hot Springs. It contains the one of the last tracts of coastal native forest.

5. Urewera, Wairoa

Urewera, Wairoa

Wairoa top place is for sure Urewera National Park. This third largest park in the New Zeeland has untouched native forest .You can take a guide and go for a walk and feel the pureness of the forest. Also, some of the guides offer guided hunting or fishing for the ones who enjoy this activities. In one corner of the park, it can be found Lake Waikaremoana that is covering about 55sq km. For the one who like to walk, there is a track which goes around the lake.

2. Wairoa District Museum, Wairoa

Wairoa District Museum, Wairoa

While you are in the Wairoa, don’t miss the chance to see Wairoa District Museum. Here, you will learn about Maori culture. They came on the New Zeeland before more than 1000 years from homeland Hawaiki. Their tradition and culture is the heart of New Zeeland identity. Go to the tribal meeting grounds and get closer to observe Maori. Meet the locals, hear how they sing while speaking and enjoy in their carved houses and in their identical food.

4. Pukenui Beach, Wairoa

Pukenui Beach, Wairoa

If you are in Wairoa for relaxing, visit the Pukenui beach which is ideal for swimming, surfing and boogie boarding. It gives a great cooling off on a hot weather, not so far from the town. Long sandy beach and warm water with plenty of people is a good choice for a lazy afternoon.

Wairoa is a place to be. If all this isn’t enough, there are a lot of extra things. Go to the casino and try your luck or just go shopping. Hot pools are great things for people who want to relax and have a little bit fun.

Related content: Map of Wairoa