After completing one of my great walks at Lake Waikaremoana Track, I continued my journey Southwards to explore more of Hawke’s Bay region. I made a stop at the town of Napier and Hasting, and finally all the way South to The Longest Place Name In The World: Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu (yup, that’s right).
Otatara Pa Historic Reserve
Visit one of the largest ancient Maori defensive hillforts in Hawke’s Bay, right at Napier’s Otatara Pa Historic Reserve.
The easy uphill walk to the commanding/defensive overseeing platform is about 15 minutes. There is also a scenic loop through and around the historical reserve that takes about 45 minutes to complete.
Within the ancient fenced hillfort.
The strategic viewpoint on the hillfort used by the Maori chief to oversee the area.
Arataki Honey Visitor Centre
Right next to Hastings, Arataki Honey Visitor Centre is a great place to learn about bees and honey making. Here, you’ll get access to interesting information and delicious honey tasting for every flavor that comes from different plants. It’s free!
Get closeup observations of bee colonies in transparent glass panels. Fun activity: Try to spot the queen bee in each colony.
The Longest Place Name In The World
Take a drive to the rural Southern end of Hawke’s Bay, to find the signboard of the world’s longest place name!
This uniquely long place name is based on a famous Maori chief and warrior, and the events that happened with him. The English translation: ‘The place where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who slid, climbed and swallowed mountains, known as ‘landeater’, played his flute to his loved one.’
If you drive even further over to Tararua district, the quiet scenic coast of Herbertville is just 25km away.
While you’re around the area, I highly recommend Wimbledon Tavern for the homely country bar and awesome food and cold drinks! The tavern owners let travelers like me car camping overnight within their property and use the restroom. They also offer a private cabin if sleeping in a car is not your thing.
*Captain Planet passing by* Remember, please take care of our environment, and please don’t destroy the Nature. Leave no trash behind and take back only photos and memories (and also some trash if you can). Walk on the designated path and stay in the middle as much as you can, so that the exposed soil doesn’t spread/corrode further. BE ONE WITH NATURE *flies away*
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