Overview
Rakaunui is a small rural community located in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. The town is situated in a valley surrounded by farmland, with the Kaimai Range visible in the distance. Rakaunui is known for its peaceful atmosphere, friendly community and proximity to natural attractions such as beaches and national parks.
| Rakaunui Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Rakaunui |
| Region | West Coast |
| District Council | Westland District |
| Sub-District | Westland District |
| Postal Code: | - |
| Current Time: | 10:15 PM |
| Date: | Saturday, January 24, 2026(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 53.68 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -40.6000 |
| Longitude | 176.1300 |
| DMS Lat | -41° 23' 60'' |
| DMS Long | 176° 7' 48'' |
History
The area around Rakaunui has a rich cultural history, with the Māori people living in the area 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, Rakaunui remains a hub for agriculture and small businesses catering to visitors to the area.
Geography
Rakaunui is situated in a valley surrounded by rolling hills and farmland. The town is located approximately 20 kilometers from the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park, which is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The nearby coast offers visitors access to stunning beaches and opportunities for fishing and water sports.
Rakaunui is located at latitude -40.60 and longitude 176.13 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -41° 23' 60'' and longitude 176° 7' 48'' (DMS).
Below is map of Rakaunui
Demographics
Rakaunui has a small population of approximately 300 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 Rakaunui.
Climate
The climate in Rakaunui 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 Rakaunui.
Rakaunui Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Error: Unable to retrieve weather forecast data.Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Rakaunui is home to several popular tourist attractions, including the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park, the Waihi Beach and the Mount Maunganui Beach. The Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park is a vast area of native forest with hiking trails, waterfalls and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The Waihi Beach and Mount Maunganui Beach are both stunning sandy beaches with excellent swimming and surfing opportunities.
Economy
Agriculture is the main industry in Rakaunui, 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 Rakaunui make it a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing rural getaway or outdoor activities.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Alfredton School |
| 2 | Makuri School |
| 3 | Pahiatua Early Learning |
| 4 | Pongaroa Early Years |
| 5 | Pongaroa School |
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