Te Araroa township sits at the edge of beautiful Kawakawa Bay. A gnarled pohutukawa tree, reputed to be the oldest and largest of its kind in New Zealand, stands in the school grounds. Te Araroa is the birthplace of Sir Apirana Ngata, who made it his life’s goal to uplift the Maori race spiritually, culturally and economically. From Te Araroa you can drive to the East Cape lighthouse and climb the steps to a fantastic view of Eastland’s coast. A bush walk around Haupara Point leads to excellent rock fishing. Pig and deer hunting, fishing trips and Maori history tours can be arranged in the town. The hotel has a restaurant. Functional facts: Approx. population 600, visitor centre, basic shops and services.