Wairoa was originally a Māori settlement. The ancestral canoe Tākitimu travelled up the river and landed near where the Tākitimu meeting house now sits. The river was an important source of food for the community that grew on its banks.

William Rhodes established a trading station there in 1839, and missionary William Williams first visited in 1841. A permanent mission station was established in 1844. Early European settlers ran sheep and traded flax.

Wairoa district, northern Hawke’s Bay, is the ideal starting point for exploring rugged coastline, wilderness adventures, safe beaches, world-class trout fishing, golf, waterfalls, hiking, hunting, rural experience, surfing, art and museum collections … there is something for everyone!

Wairoa is only 1.5 hours drive from both Napier and Gisborne airports. Due to the vastness and geographic nature of the Wairoa district, to really explore and make the most of the experience, a vehicle is required, making us a perfect destination for the free independent traveller.

The population of Wairoa township is 4720 and 8920 in the wider district (as of the 2024 Census population of Wairoa District); 66.3% of our population identify as being of Māori descent. Agriculture, forestry and horticulture are our main industries, along with support businesses and services. We have 37 marae within the district, providing an opportunity for visitors to have genuine, authentic Māori culture experience.