Ngā Ara Tipuna, Central Hawke's Bay
Ngā Ara Tipuna is a storytelling journey through ancient pā and wetlands in Tamatea Central Hawke’s Bay.
Pukekaihau Pā
In Waipukurau, experience the site of Pukekaihau Pā, once a thriving Māori settlement. From the 1600s, many important tīpuna (ancestors) lived in this impressive hilltop pā tūwatawata (fortified settlement).
Beautiful carvings and other artwork let you glimpse what life was like for the tīpuna who lived here, and provide insights on the importance of the surrounding waterways and forests during those times.
Driving Tour
Take the Ngā Ara Tipuna driving tour to discover seven more sites of cultural and natural significance around Waipukurau and Takapau.
On the tour, you’ll travel along the braided Tukituki River and see Lake Whatumā: once this area’s most prized natural resource. You’ll stand atop the Pukeora limestone cliffs. You’ll visit several pā (settlement) sites, and places of early interaction between Māori and Europeans.
More detail at the Ngā Ara Tipuna website
Ngā Ara Tipuna is a multi-award winner at the 2022 Best Designs, Supreme Winner at the 2022 Hawke’s Bay Heritage Awards, and Outstanding Project at the 2023 Recreation Aotearoa Awards.
Take a look...
Take a look...
back
