With 200km of fishable waters, Pahiatua is a popular base for trout fishing. Every October, the town celebrates that Paihiatua Trout Fishing Festival
Pahiatua is a popular and inviting stop for travellers, from a picnic in the Main Street gardens to a shopping spree in the collection of shops and boutiques - as well as a mouthwatering selection of cafes and restaurants - all with the experience of friendly country hospitality at its finest.
Driving into Pahiatua you will be greeted by large tree-lined gardens which split the road into north bound and south bound lanes; these beautiful town gardens occupy land originally set aside for a railway that was instead constructed west of the town. At the northern end of Pahiatua is the unique sight of a replica World War II Harvard Plane that has been converted into a children's slide and is one of the many activities in the children's playground.
Those arriving from the south will notice the white stone Polish Memorial on State Highway 2. This memorial marks the site of the Polish Children’s Camp – established in 1944 to host 733 refugee children from Poland until the camp closed in 1952. When the sun is shining on the monument, it casts a shadow which represents a Mother and Child.
The local trout fishing is nothing short of excellent - rivers around Pahiatua are renowned for containing some of the best brown trout in New Zealand. If hunting is more your style, look no further - wild deer and pigs are lurking around, and the many bush walks are a trampers delight.
The iconic Tui Brewery is nearby in Mangatainoka - book in for a Tui style BBQ lesson or wander through the Tui museum. The Tui Restaurant and Café is a local secret – and a fantastic place for a meal! A well designed menu and superb chefs will have you returning time and time again. Perfect for a dinner with a difference...
