Te Whakaru
The cemetery at Te Whakaru is considered one of the oldest European cemeteries in New Zealand, with its first burial dating to 1802. Amongst those buried are many who lost their lives in shipwrecks in the area.
Little is left of the original German missionary settlement built in 1843, from which Mission Bay was named. After unsuccessfully opening a school in a bid to convert the children of their Maori neighbours, the missionaries resorted to farming, ship building and trading
The Shand family, early European settlers also lived here during the late 1800s in a significant multi-roomed, thatched Ponga house, which burnt down in 1906 . Te Whakaru today is accessible across private farmland and despite its remoteness still gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history and industry of this stunning part of the islands.
Te Whakaru also has several historical shipwrecks nearby, the remains of several can be found by diving.
Several species of birds can often be observed in this area, depending on the season.
Seals from the nearby Pt Munning Seal Colony may be occasionally be observed from the shore here.
This attraction is on private land and access requires permission beforehand and payment of an entry fee. This is very important, especially on farms, for management and health and safety.
Contact
Muirson Family
Ph: 03 3050 022
Email: muirsonfish@ruralinzone.net