Kaipara District Council

About

Kaipara
Where it's easy to live

Story

Some of Northland's most beautiful scenery and much of its early history lies in the north. The climate is warm and sunny and it may be this that led both Maori and European to settle here first. The Kaipara has many rolling farmlands fringed with spectacular bays and beaches. The coastlines have remained unspoilt and are an aquatic paradise for water sports.

The Kaipara District Council is one of the few Councils that stretch from the west coast to the east coast. From the wilds of the west coast to the water sports of the east coast and rural New Zealand in between. The District has it all!

West Coast
From the Pouto Lighthouse in the south to Maunganui Bluff in the north, Ripiro Beach is sometimes wild and windy but always awesome. The West Coast is becoming increasingly popular as a lifestyle and tourist destination. This is an area steeped in maritime history both Maori and European. It was the scene of many shipping disasters the remains of which can still be seen from time to time as the sands ebb and flow. It is important evironmentally, culturally, and historically.

Dargaville
An attractive place to shop, visit, live and work, it sits on the banks of the mighty Northern Wairoa River. There is plenty to see and do. A good place to start is the Northern Wairoa Maori, Maritime and Pioneer Museum. Not only is it an enjoyable and informative stop but the views over Dargaville and the surrounding area from the Harding Park Reserve are magnificent.

Kaipara Harbour
The Kaipara Harbour is the second largest enclosed harbour in the world. What we do on the land directly affects the harbour. It is bound to the land with a huge water catchment area that stretches from Waipoua in the north and as far inland as Hikurangi to the east. It is the 'food basket" of Ngati Whatua and all those who fish and collect shellfish from it. It is a taonga worth preserving for the health of the region and for future generations.

Mangawhai
It is a seaside town situated on the east coast which is becoming increasingly popular as a lifestyle and holiday destination as people discover its hidden charms. It has a breathtaking beach and unique tidal estuary waiting to welcome you. If water sports is your thing then this is the place for you. The area also has environmental, ecological and cultural values. It is one of the few remaining places that is home to the Fairy Tern. There are also a number of beautiful walks you can take. It has attracted artists from all over who have settled here and who find inspiration in the magic that is Mangawhai. It is the district's second largest town.

Rural Heartland
Farming and forestry support the local economy.