Denise Eaglesome Karekare. Photo: Jamie Tahana / RNZ
The name of the northern Hawkes Bay river town of Wairoa has been translated as “the long water which bubbles, swirls and is uneven”. That certainly became true earlier this year when Cyclone Gabrielle swallowed the town, leaving a flooded trail of destruction in its path. But what of life beyond that catastrophic event? What makes Wairoa special?
Wairoa's Deputy Mayor Denise Eaglesome-Karekare fills Maggie Tweedie in on what sees the rural town thrive culturally. From Osler’s Bakery award winning pies on Marine Parade, the local lighthouse, to Mahia Peninsula and kapa haka. There's more than one could expect when driving through on a summer roadie.
Photo: RNZ / Tom Kitchin
Joylene Rohe-Karauria and Edward Karauria of Wairoa's Mātangirau at Te Matatini Day Two, Eden Park, Tāmaki Makaurau, 23 February, 2023. Photo: RNZ/ Nick Monro
Oslers Famous Bakery and Cafe in Wairoa Photo: Supplied
