Overview
Hihitahi is a small settlement located in the South Taranaki District of the North Island of New Zealand. The settlement is situated on the banks of the Waingongoro River and is surrounded by picturesque farmland and forests. Hihitahi's location near the coast and the mountains makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, while its quiet, rural setting offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Hihitahi Details | |
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Location | Hihitahi |
Region | Taranaki |
District Council | South Taranaki District |
Sub-District | South Taranaki District |
Postal Code: | - |
Current Time: | 01:52 AM |
Date: | Friday, October 10, 2025(NZST) |
Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
Elevation / Altitude | 53.55 meters. Above Seal level |
Latitude | -39.5700 |
Longitude | 175.7000 |
DMS Lat | -40° 25' 48'' |
DMS Long | 175° 41' 60'' |
History
Hihitahi has a rich Maori history, with the local iwi (tribe) having lived in the area for centuries. The first European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century and the settlement grew rapidly in the early 20th century, thanks to the development of the local farming and forestry industries. Today, Hihitahi is known for its strong sense of community and its commitment to preserving its heritage and natural beauty.
Geography
Hihitahi is located on the banks of the Waingongoro River, which flows through the area and provides a source of irrigation for local farms and orchards. The settlement is surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, with the stunning Mt Taranaki visible in the distance. The area is known for its mild climate, with warm summers and cool winters and its fertile soil, which is ideal for growing crops and raising livestock.
Hihitahi is located at latitude -39.57 and longitude 175.70 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -40° 25' 48'' and longitude 175° 41' 60'' (DMS).
Below is map of Hihitahi
Demographics
Hihitahi has a small population of around 200 people, according to the latest census. The settlement is predominantly European, with Maori and Pacific Islander populations making up a small percentage of the community. The area is known for its friendly locals and strong sense of community spirit, with a range of community events and activities held throughout the year.
Climate
Hihitahi experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with warm, sunny summers and cool, rainy winters. Temperatures in the summer months (December to February) range from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius, while temperatures in the winter months (June to August) range from 5 to 10 degrees Celsius. The area is known for its occasional wind gusts and frosts, particularly during the winter months.
Hihitahi Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Hihitahi Live Weather
Overcast clouds
Humidity: 92%
Wind: 3 mt/sec towards NW
observed on 09 Oct 2025 15:00
Hihitahi Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
14.4°C to 14.47°C
Overcast clouds
18.92°C to 18.92°C
Broken clouds
18.95°C to 18.95°C
Broken clouds
18.41°C to 18.41°C
Broken clouds
16.35°C to 16.35°C
Light rain
11.3°C to 11.3°C
Moderate rain
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Hihitahi is home to a range of natural and man-made attractions, including the stunning Waingongoro River, which is popular with trout fishermen and kayakers. The area is also known for its excellent hiking and mountain biking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. Other popular attractions include the historic Te Henui Cemetery, which dates back to the mid-19th century and the nearby Taranaki Pioneer Village, which showcases the region's pioneering history.
Economy
Hihitahi's economy is primarily driven by agriculture and forestry, with a number of farms and orchards in the surrounding countryside. The settlement is also home to a range of small businesses, including shops, cafes and restaurants. Hihitahi's proximity to the coast and the mountains makes it a popular destination for tourists, with visitors coming to the area to explore its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Nearby Schools
Sr. No. | School Name |
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1 | Mataroa School |
2 | Moawhango School |
3 | Taihape Childcare Centre |
4 | Taihape Kindergarten |
5 | Te Kōhanga Reo o Mōkai Pātea o Taihape |