KiwiGlimpseOverview
Ratana is a small Māori settlement located in the Manawatū-Whanganui region of New Zealand's North Island. The settlement is named after its founder, Tahupotiki Wiremu Ratana, who established the Ratana Church in the early 20th century. The settlement is known for its strong Māori culture and spiritual significance, making it an important destination for those interested in Māori history and culture.
| Ratana Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Ratana |
| Region | Manawatu-Whanganui |
| District Council | Rangitikei District |
| Postal Code: | 4581 |
| Current Time: | 04:22 AM |
| Date: | Saturday, January 18, 2025(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 53.39 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -40.0399 |
| Longitude | 175.1765 |
| DMS Lat | -41° 57' 36.199'' |
| DMS Long | 175° 10' 35.2232'' |
History
The Ratana Church was established in 1925 by Tahupotiki Wiremu Ratana, a Māori prophet who believed that he had received a message from God. Ratana's teachings emphasized Māori self-determination and sovereignty and his church became an important part of the Māori political landscape. Today, the Ratana Church remains an important institution in Māori society and the settlement of Ratana is an important pilgrimage site for Māori from around New Zealand.
Geography
Ratana is located in the Manawatū-Whanganui region of New Zealand's North Island, approximately 20 kilometers southwest of the city of Wanganui. The settlement is situated on the banks of the Whanganui River, surrounded by farmland and rolling hills. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty and its strong spiritual significance for Māori.
Ratana is located at latitude -40.03994471 and longitude 175.17645090 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -41° 57' 36.199'' and longitude 175° 10' 35.2232'' (DMS).
Below is map of Ratana
Demographics
The settlement of Ratana has a population of around 300 people, with a strong Māori presence. The Ratana Church remains an important institution in the settlement and many residents are members of the church. The settlement has a strong sense of community and a deep connection to Māori culture and history.
Climate
Ratana has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures throughout the year. Summers are warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20-25°C. Winters are cool, with temperatures rarely dropping below 5°C. The area can experience high rainfall, particularly during the winter months.
Ratana Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Ratana Live Weather
Overcast clouds
Humidity: 87%
Wind: 1.62 mt/sec towards E
observed on 17 Jan 2025 18:00
Ratana Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
12.22°C to 13.63°C
Overcast clouds
20.34°C to 20.34°C
Light rain
22.66°C to 22.66°C
Overcast clouds
21.39°C to 21.39°C
Overcast clouds
15.91°C to 15.91°C
Moderate rain
18.22°C to 18.22°C
Overcast clouds
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
The Ratana Church is the main landmark and tourist attraction in the settlement of Ratana. The church is an important pilgrimage site for Māori from around New Zealand and visitors can attend services and learn about the history and teachings of the church. The nearby Whanganui River is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking and hiking.
Economy
The economy of Ratana is driven primarily by agriculture and the Ratana Church. Many residents of the settlement work on nearby farms or are employed by the church. The settlement also has a small number of shops and businesses catering to visitors to the Ratana Church.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fordell Preschool |
| 2 | Fordell School |
| 3 | Kaitoke School (Wanganui) |
| 4 | Te Kōhanga Reo o Tiehutia Te Waka |
| 5 | Te Kōhanga Reo o Wharemārama |