Kawerau has an abundance of things to do outdoors and indoors, all right on the door step…… or just down the road. If you’re new to the area and not sure how best to fill your time, contact one of our friendly ambassadors to show you around.
There are also lots of events and shows happening throughout the year. In the tradition of the town’s heritage, Kawerau hosts the National Woodskills Competition and Kawerau Woodfest. Other events include bird shows, equestrian events, golf, weaving and martial arts.A very special annual event is Christmas in the Park, with a grand fireworks display at the end. Check out the events calendar to see what is happening when!
Outdoors
Tarawera River
Swimming
White water kayaking on the Tarawera River
Walks
Hunting
Fishing
Golf
Bowls
The Kawerau Bowling Club was one of the first clubs to be established in the new town, with the first green opening in 1955. It now boasts two impressive astro turfs. A bowls and social venue, it is open most days for social activities.
For further information, please contact: Kawerau Bowling Club
Phone (07) 323 9144
Water Sports
Nearby is a range of exciting watersports to really get your adrenaline pumping.
Indoors
As John Ruskin once said ‘Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather.’ With that in mind, here are a few things to keep you occupied when it is ‘refreshing’ outside.
Waterwheel
The Waterwheel project began in 1990 by people in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, who were keen to preserve a vanishing history – the industrial archaeology of New Zealand.
For 18 years, volunteers have saved or restored donated machinery, vehicles and equipment. Daily diaries reflect this endeavour and protect the knowledge of volunteers, some retired tradesmen who have since passed away.
The project had a second aim, to provide opportunities to young and old referred to by The Waterwheel by Courts, Work & Income New Zealand, Blue Light and other programmes. The older volunteers are able to pass on trade, workshop and life skills to unskilled younger people, in many instances providing confidence and direction. 90% have gone on to paid employment.
A live and historic village and heritage park is currently being established. It will be a tourist attraction, a place to learn and a place that protects the skills and heritage of past times. Other groups will be able to use the project to display their history and culture.
For further information please refer to: http://waterwheel.nz/
Community and Cultural events
Library and Museum
Squash
The Kawerau Squash Club is located on Cobham drive in the complex as the Golf Club.
For further information: Phone: (07) 323 7095
Email: kaweraugolf@xtra.co.nz
Mill Tours
Walking tours of the giant Norske Skog Tasman newsprint mill can be arranged for visitors over the age of 12.
There is also a bus/vehicle tour of the mill site and the ponds which does accommodate children under the age of 12.
Tours are fully guided and take approximately 90 minutes.
To book contact, Norske Skog reception on (07) 323 3999 or Public Relations on (07) 323 3788.