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About Wairoa

Wairoa is the main town of Northern Hawke's Bay and is the gateway to Lake Waikaremoana, Mahia Peninsula and the wilderness of Te Urewera National Park.

Wairoa in Maori means Long Water and is located on the banks of the expansive Wairoa River, which provides an excellent and sheltered venue for water-skiing, jet boating and rowing. The town offers a pleasant, relaxed lifestyle, perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors.

Your first port of call should be the Wairoa i-SITE Visitor Centre on the corner of SH2 and Queen Street for maps and information about local attractions.

These local attractions include the Portland Island Lighthouse, built of solid kauri on Portland Island and used from 1878 to the mid-1950s. The lighthouse was moved to its present position in 1961. Kopu Pitiera Memorial Stone, opposite the library on the riverbank serves as a memorial to a turbulent period in Wairoa's history during the 1860s. Kopu was a major figure in the conflicts of the time. Wairoa was once a river port with wool, flax, fibre, meat and dairy products as the main exports of the area.

The Heritage Trail walk starts on Marine Parade and is abound with historic sites such as River Wharf, the most substantial remaining wharf of the export era and pretty picnic spots. After a long day walking, fishing or sightseeing visit the Morere Hot Springs on SH2, 40 minutes from Wairoa.

Northern Hawke's Bay is a popular destination for outdoor adventure and wildlife and wilderness.

Along with water based activities the rivers and coastline offer well recognized trout fishing and excellent seafood with whitebait spots, deep sea fishing, surfcasting and underwater fishing all available.

Retail Area Hours

The main retail area in Wairoa is situated alongside the Wairoa River on the Marine Parade. Take a stroll and enjoy the relaxed surroundings and view.

Mondays to Fridays: 9.00am to 5.00pm

Saturdays: 9.00am to 1.00pm

Sundays: Shops are closed but some Cafes/Restaurants are open.

Should you be travelling from afar, please be aware that supermarkets close at 4.00pm weekends and are open until 6pm weekdays.