Central Hawke's Bay
Encompassing the settlements of Waipukurau, Waipawa, Porangahau, Takapau, Otane, Ongaonga, Pukehou and Tikokino, Central Hawkes Bay’s natural beauty stretches from the mountain slopes of the Ruahine Ranges to vast sandy beaches of the Pacific Ocean.
The area boasts much to see and do with fabulous trout fishing, walking and cycling tracks. On the Central Hawkes Bay coast you can ride a horse, snorkel, dive, catch fish, waterski, surf or explore Te Angiangi Marine Reserve, established in 1997 and running from Blackhead Beach to Aramoana. It is well worth walking this area of sea and foreshore in which all marine life and their habitats are protected.
The towns and villages of Central Hawke’s Bay provide enchanting traces of early settlement to the region. The area has historic homesteads and stately gardens to wander through. Along Highway 50 view spectacular rhododendrons in the large gardens near the village of Onga Onga and explore the crafts at Tikokino. Visits to historic homesteads, wild east coast beaches, bushwalks in the Kaweka and Ruahine Ranges and trout fishing are all exciting options for visitors.
Waipukurau is the rural service town for the district and just eight kilometres northeast is Waipawa, where the Waipawa and Tukituki Rivers meet to provide excellent trout fishing. Waipukurau, with a population of 4000, is a thriving rural town with amenities such as golf courses, a sports complex, a theatre, gallery, cafes and restaurants. From Waipukurau's airfield you can see gliders and hot air balloons soar skywards in the warm thermals and you can visit the art village of Otane, painters, weavers and the centrally located Electra Art Gallery.
The Central Hawke's Bay Settlers Museum is a must-do in Waipawa, stop for a coffee and wander through the museum at your leisure.
Porangahau is a unique coastal experience famous for its seafood. Located just 44km from Waipukurau, it also has the world's longest place name: Taumata whakatangi hangakoauau o tamatea turi pukakapiki maunga horo nuku pokai whenua kitanatahu which translates into English as "The hilltop ,where Tamatea with big knees, conqueror of mountains, eater of land, traveller over land and sea, played his koauau to his beloved".
Accommodation can be found in country or historic B&Bs where you can tuck yourself away from the world and enjoy the relaxed rural lifestyle.
For more Information contact the Central Hawkes Bay Visitor Information Centre Phone: +64 6 858 6488 or email: info@lambcountry.co.nz
Central Hawkes Bay Population: 13,000