Takapau

Takapau is a destination for travelers interested in rural architecture, local history, or golf. If you are looking for a hotel in Takapau, you can start by deciding what you want to focus on during your trip: Oruawharo combines architectural history with selected visiting dates, while the golf club and local reserves offer other things to explore. For a broader perspective, it is also worth distinguishing Takapau itself from the wider destination of the Central Hawke's Bay District.

Oruawharo and Takapau's Local History

Oruawharo Homestead, with its garden, stables, and coach house in Takapau, is a representative, intact example of a Victorian country house built from native timbers in 1879. Oruawharo is a special place with significant historical, architectural, and social values. This destination is therefore defined not only by the year it was built, but also by the connection between architecture and social history.

St Vincent’s Church is part of the historic Oruawharo estate. St Mark’s Church has been part of Takapau’s spiritual and social history for more than 130 years. The two churches represent different historical connections: St Vincent’s belongs to the estate, while St Mark’s is linked to the town’s longer history. Visitors can tour the Oruawharo grounds during selected events. The owners introduce visitors to the history of their home at selected events. If you are planning a visit, check before you travel whether a suitable event is scheduled.

Memorial Sites and Golf in Takapau

The Ngā Ara Tīpuna installation is located in the Takapau Railway Reserve. Takapau Cemetery is a heritage-listed reserve area with a memorial wall. Takapau Playground is a community park with a playground.

Takapau Golf Course is a 25.7-hectare sports and recreation park on Charlotte Street and Oruawharo Road. Takapau Golf Club has a 12-hole course with two 18-hole layouts, a 9-hole option, and a short Red Course for young and casual golfers. Check current opening and booking conditions before planning a round; facilities may change.

Takapau in the Wider Destination of the Central Hawke's Bay District

Takapau is not far from Highway 2. The Highway 2 Trail is a different route: in the wider destination of the Central Hawke's Bay District, it passes significant Māori and European heritage sites and closely follows early footpaths. Waipawa and Waipukurau are on the route; the smaller townships of Ōtāne and Takapau are off it.

The Tukituki Trail is a network of paths in the Central Hawke's Bay District for walkers, cyclists, mountain bikers, and horse riders. Limestone paths run along the river stopbanks, while road connections link Waipukurau and Waipawa. Motor vehicles are not permitted on the paths. The difference is the focus: the Highway 2 Trail highlights heritage sites and early footpaths, while the Tukituki Trail focuses on its permitted uses and path conditions. Conditions may change after flooding or maintenance work. Check the current status before using the trail.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Wallingford, Elsthorpe, Porangahau, Waipukurau, Bridge Pa, Puketapu, Haumoana, Urewera National Park

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