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Waikouaiti

Pronounced Wai - kou - a - iti  (end/crossing of little wading or swimming rivers/streams)

Waikouaiti can be described as being 'richly authentic'. 


As the founding township of Otago, Waikouaiti remains a classic example of a pioneering village, both rich in history and sense of community.


Located along State Highway 1, heading North, Waikouaiti bridge welcomes travellers to the town. Beneath, historic ruins of the former bridge are visible at low tide and the area is popular with picnickers & white baiters.


A bustling rural community, the township boasts a large community centre & busy main street.  Waikouaiti is the largest township within the demography of North East Coast Discoveries and features stunning beaches, the beautiful Hawksbury Lagoon, the historic Waikouaiti race-course, a museum & heritage centre and recreation domain; and as an absolute must, a traditional bakery!


Waikouaiti is the location for a large egg producing poultry farm which provides employment for the district.


As a service town, Waikouaiti is the gateway to Oceana Gold Mine, also a provider for employment opportunities within the wider area.

Location

 
History

Māori, who found the area bountiful in fish & bird life, were successfully sustaining a population of 200-300 by 1836. 

Australian whaler Johnny Jones purchased the local whaling station in 1838, after which Waikouaiti developed rapidly. In March 1840, the first European settlers comprising fourteen 'farming families' arrived in Waikouaiti on the brig ‘Magnet’. 

These early pioneers developed ‘Matanaka’, which today is protected by the Historic Places Trust, with a Grade 1 listing as the first commercial farm in New Zealand. Much photographed farm buildings & remnants of this bygone era remain at Matanaka which is set against the commanding Pacific Ocean which borders the North East Otago Coast.

When gold was discovered in Dunstan in 1862, Waikouaiti offered the best route into the goldfields and a safe place to keep new found riches. 

Destinations

Waikouaiti showcases some great examples of early New Zealand architecture including a fine example of the Bank of New Zealand, designed by famed architect R. A Lawson, and built in 1898. The building is protected by the Historic Places Trust with a Grade 1 listing and now home to the Waikouaiti Coast Heritage Centre, which is a great walk through exhibit and well worth a visit. 


Nearby, the historic St John's Anglican Church is situated on Beach Street and recorded as the oldest Anglican Church with an active congregation in the South Island. 


Take a walk around Hawksbury lagoon and enjoy being immersed within a wildlife reserve for ducks and native birds. Over 26 species of bird have formed their habitat around this semi-tidal lagoon which has been planted in New Zealand native trees. A truly stunning, peaceful environment to wander through.


The name Hawksbury refers to the lagoon separating the town of Waikouaiti, from its beach. 


Further North, Cornish Head hides the world’s longest sea cave while guarding the 5 kilometre long, dog friendly, Waikouaiti Beach.


For further information about Waikouaiti visit the Progress of Waikouaiti area website POWA.