Whangara

By Caitlin Lynch

This relaxed beachside town is an important location in Ngati Porou history. It is known as the landing site of Paikea, the Ngati Porou/Kai Tahu ancestor who rode from Hawaiki to Aotearoa on the back of a whale. The whale then turned into the large rock island which lies at the edge of the bay. A tekoteko carving of Paikea and the whale sits at the peak of Whangara marae.

Whiti Ihimaera’s 1987 novel ‘The Whale Rider’ explores this history through the fictional narrative of the relationship between a young girl, Pai and her koro/grandfather. In 2004, Ihimaera’s novel was adapted into a film, directed by Niki Caro and starring Keisha Castle-Hughes and Cliff Curtis. Like the book, the film is set in Whangara, particularly on the beach and around the marae. The film received international acclaim and Castle-Hughes was nominated for an Academy award.

The beach is not easily accessible to tourists, so if you’re interested in exploring the place we recommend getting in touch with Tipuna Tours.If you happen to snap a photo of this beautiful place, please feel free to submit to NZPlaces.