KiwiGlimpseOverview
Rakaiata is a small town located in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. The town is situated on the banks of the Waikato River and is surrounded by rolling hills and farmland. Rakaiata is known for its peaceful rural setting and friendly community, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing getaway.
| Rakaiata Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Rakaiata |
| Region | West Coast |
| District Council | Westland District |
| Sub-District | Westland District |
| Postal Code: | - |
| Current Time: | 08:29 AM |
| Date: | Monday, May 19, 2025(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 53.71 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -40.1300 |
| Longitude | 176.2200 |
| DMS Lat | -41° 52' 12'' |
| DMS Long | 176° 13' 12'' |
History
Rakaiata has a rich cultural history, with the area being traditionally inhabited by the Māori people for centuries before the arrival of European settlers. The town was established in the 19th century and was originally a stopover point for travelers between Auckland and Hamilton. Today, Rakaiata remains a hub for agriculture and tourism, with many visitors drawn to the area for its natural beauty and rural charm.
Geography
Rakaiata is located on the banks of the Waikato River, which is the longest river in New Zealand. The town is situated in a valley between the Kaimai Range to the east and the Hakarimata Range to the west. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, farmland and native forests, with the Waikato River providing a focal point for outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking.
Rakaiata is located at latitude -40.13 and longitude 176.22 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -41° 52' 12'' and longitude 176° 13' 12'' (DMS).
Below is map of Rakaiata
Demographics
Rakaiata has a small population of approximately 1,000 people, with the majority of residents being involved in agriculture or small businesses catering to visitors. The community is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with visitors often commenting on the warm hospitality they receive during their stay in Rakaiata.
Climate
The climate in Rakaiata is temperate, with warm summers and cool winters. The area receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with occasional heavy rain and thunderstorms during the summer months. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather conditions when visiting Rakaiata.
Rakaiata Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Rakaiata Live Weather
Scattered clouds
Humidity: 68%
Wind: 4.67 mt/sec towards SW
observed on 18 May 2025 21:00
Rakaiata Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
13.27°C to 13.27°C
Scattered clouds
13.81°C to 14.9°C
Scattered clouds
12.63°C to 12.63°C
Clear sky
14.21°C to 14.21°C
Clear sky
14.74°C to 14.74°C
Clear sky
15.26°C to 15.26°C
Light rain
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Rakaiata is home to several popular tourist attractions, including the Te Aroha Mineral Spas and the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park. The Te Aroha Mineral Spas offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind in natural hot springs, while the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park is a stunning natural area with hiking trails, waterfalls and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also explore the local farmland and experience rural life in New Zealand.
Economy
Agriculture is the main industry in Rakaiata, with dairy farming and sheep farming being common activities. The town also benefits from tourism, with many small businesses catering to visitors to the area. The natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Rakaiata make it a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing getaway or an authentic New Zealand rural experience.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Appleton Kindergarten |
| 2 | Busy Bees Educational CC-Dannevirke |
| 3 | Country Kids ECE Limited |
| 4 | Dannevirke Central Kindergarten |
| 5 | Dannevirke High School |