Overview
Aratapu is a small rural settlement located in the Northland region of New Zealand. The settlement is situated on the banks of the Wairoa River, approximately 12 kilometers south of Dargaville. Aratapu is known for its peaceful rural setting and beautiful natural surroundings.
| Aratapu Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Aratapu |
| Region | Northland |
| District Council | Kaipara District |
| Postal Code: | 0371 |
| Current Time: | 08:45 PM |
| Date: | Saturday, January 24, 2026(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 53.01 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -36.0149 |
| Longitude | 173.9026 |
| DMS Lat | -37° 59' 6.2619'' |
| DMS Long | 173° 54' 9.3197'' |
History
The area around Aratapu has a rich Maori history, with several important pa sites located in the vicinity. European settlers arrived in the area in the mid-1800s and the settlement of Aratapu was established shortly thereafter. The settlement grew rapidly during the late 1800s and early 1900s, with several businesses and industries taking root in the area.
Geography
Aratapu is located in the Northland region of New Zealand, approximately 12 kilometers south of Dargaville. The settlement is situated on the banks of the Wairoa River, which flows into the Kaipara Harbour. The surrounding area is characterized by rolling hills and fertile farmland, with stunning views of the Kaipara Harbour and the surrounding countryside.
Aratapu is located at latitude -36.01492726 and longitude 173.90258880 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -37° 59' 6.2619'' and longitude 173° 54' 9.3197'' (DMS).
Below is map of Aratapu
Demographics
The population of Aratapu is small, with around 200 people living in the settlement and surrounding area. The community is close-knit and friendly, with a mix of age groups and professions. Aratapu is a popular place to live for those seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle.
Climate
Aratapu has a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. The average temperature in the summer months (December to February) is around 24 degrees Celsius, while the average temperature in the winter months (June to August) is around 10 degrees Celsius. The area receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with occasional heavy downpours during the winter months.
Aratapu Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Error: Unable to retrieve weather forecast data.Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Aratapu is a popular destination for visitors seeking a peaceful rural escape. The settlement is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and bird watching. The nearby Kaipara Harbour is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, offering stunning views and a range of water-based activities. The town of Dargaville is also located nearby, offering a range of cultural attractions and amenities.
Economy
The economy of Aratapu is primarily based on agriculture, with dairy farming and horticulture being the main industries. The settlement also has a small number of local businesses, including cafes, restaurants and retail stores. Many residents of Aratapu commute to nearby towns and cities for work, while others work from home or run their own businesses.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arapohue School |
| 2 | Dargaville Free Kindergarten |
| 3 | Dargaville Playcentre |
| 4 | Dargaville Primary School |
| 5 | Family Link Childcare |
KiwiGlimpse