Ngāruawāhia is culturally significant for Maori of the Waikato region. It is the home of the Maori King and the magnificent Turangawaewae Marae.
Just north of Hamilton, Ngāruawāhia is a significant place for Māori culture and history. Home to the Māori King, Ngāruawāhia hosts a number of important cultural events during the year.
Ornately carved Turangawaewae Marae is the Māori King's base. It is open to the public only once a year, during the annual regatta. Held on the nearest Saturday to the 17th of March, the regatta includes a parade of traditional war canoes on the Waikato River.
Ngāruawāhia is located at the junction of two great rivers - Waikato and Waipa. These rivers were once important canoe routes for Māori and later for the European settlers. Taupiri Mountain, which watches over Ngāruawāhia, is very sacred; on its slopes is the Waikato’s most significant Māori burial ground.
Ngāruawāhia is also home to the Hakarimata Walkway, which features kauri trees, streams and waterfalls. It has become known as a fitness challenge because of the 'never-ending stairway' which reaches to the summit.
Those who enjoy exploring on two wheels can hire a bike and ride along Te Awa, The Great NZ River ride from Hamilton to Ngāruawāhia via the impressive Perry Bridge.
