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KAEO: an estuarine shellfish that grows on the banks of the Kaeo river.
The valley of Kaeo, with the Ngati Uru pa Pohue overlooking the town, is the social heart of Whangaroa. Here can be found the Council offices and library, museum, Methodist and Anglican churches, The community hall, Te Runanga o Whaingaroa building, The Fire Station, Whangaroa College and Kaeo Primary School.Just a short drive up Omaunu hill is Whangaroa health and kauri lodge.
Commercial activities include a variety of food outlets, two petrol staions, second hand shops, a laundromat, a general supermarket, drapery and hardware, and arts and crafts outlets.
With its key position astride the Twin Coast Discovery Highway at the access point for the world's most beautiful harbour, Kaeo has much to offer any visitor who is searching for that elusive "something different".
The main road through Kaeo from the Bay Of Islands to Mangonui was described by a public works statement in 1876 as "fairly passable for horseman" to just passable for wheeled traffic by 1900. Things have improved a little since then.
The majestic pa site you see as you come over the brow of the hill is Pohue , Ngatiuru Pa and home of Te Ara.
As you approach our town you will pass the local schools, bowling club, Anglican Church and Police station. The church in the middle of town, was built to commemorate 100 years since the establishment of the first Wesleyan Mission Station in New Zealand by Rev Samuel Leigh in 1822. As your head out of town, across the paddock by the Fire Station, you will see a Cairn which has been erected on the original site of the Mission Station.
Original buildings still remain in the main street, many have been moved to other areas. Kauri timber bought from Spikeman (One of the first European settlers) was taken back to Auckland, to become Auckland’s first private dwelling, the building now stands in Cornwall Park, and is named "Acacia Cottage".
AT the northern end of town, is the Old Saddlery and Post Office. The Post Office is now home to Kaeo’s museum treasures. Many New Zealanders can trace their genealogy from their records. It is also the resting place for Tai Tokerau TOUCHSTONE.
Just out of town you will pass Sanfords processing plant where fresh oysters, and scallops from the Whangaroa area are processed. Oysters can be bought at the factory, and guided tours can be arranged on request.
Keep an key on the “big bull” and dinosaur size “weta” as you head north of town, we breed them big in Whangaroa – something to do with the fresh spring water.
Drive past the bridge for approximately 10 minutes to the breathtaking scenery of the Whangaroa Harbour. Whangaroa is the headquarters of New Zealand’s popular Game fish club. Outside the harbour are the Cavalli Islands, area renown as New Zealand’s biggest game fish feeding ground.
Once you go over the Kaeo river and head north, Taratara – the majestic rock formation and keeper of ancient Maori history and treasures, will farewell you as you continue your journey north
We hope you enjoyed the ‘snapshot’ of our small town. Come back when you have time to explore our hidden walkways, stroll our sandy beaches, dive our water wonderland and pause to meet our diverse community of Whangaroa. Haere ra - until we meet again
Support our Sponsors
Kaeo Four Square – LUCKY LOTTO SHOP – all grocery and postal requirements
Anne’s Second hand Store – antiques, treasures and preloved items.
Bookshop in Kaeo & Beehive Crafts –Second hand books, magazines, local arts and crafts. Espresso & Denheath custard squares.
1835 Fishshop – No1 fish, chips, burgers in town. Come and try our $5 triple Dip or our $6 combo Special.
The Old Saddlery – 2 Sisters – homecooking, muffins, light lunches, coffee , internet, photocopying.
Kaeo Pharmacy – Friendly, professional service.
CT Automotive – all mechanical Servicing and repairs – WOF
Kaeo Farm & Fuel – Farm merchandise, hardware , cement, fishing tackle, bait and ice.
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