Overview
Wairoa is a small riverside town of 5,000 people in northern Hawke's Bay, serving as a practical stopover on State Highway 2 between Napier and Gisborne. The town sits on both sides of the Wairoa River, with the main part on the south bank.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Museums · Nature
Before you go
Accommodation
Wairoa has limited accommodation: motels from around $105–$110 per night and holiday homes. Riverside Motor Camp has been closed since March 2023 flood damage. Bookings generally not necessary.
Food
Osler's Bakery is renowned for pies with many awards. Cafes cluster on Marine Parade with varying hours. The town lacks extensive restaurant options.
Money
The town has four ATM machines. Many merchants in the surrounding region do not accept EFTPOS, making cash essential for purchases outside of major towns. Carry sufficient cash when traveling in the wider Hawke's Bay region.
Transport
State Highway 2 is the main route through Wairoa, connecting Napier to the south and Gisborne to the northeast. InterCity coaches serve the route but schedules are infrequent. No rail service.
Weather
Hawke's Bay has a Mediterranean climate — warm dry summers and mild winters. Summer is best for outdoor activities. Cyclone Bola (1988) shows the region can experience severe weather.
