Wainuiomata boasts a wealth of natural attractions that draw visitors from the region.
History of Tourism in Wainuiomata
Wainuiomata served as a popular location for recreational fishing in the Wainuiomata River and Stream. During the late 19th century, settlers introduced trout to the Wainuiomata River, where the species thrived in the local environment. This led to trout fishing becoming a favoured pastime. A fishing hut known as Smith’s Whare was frequently used by recreational anglers during the mid-to-late 19th century and into the early 20th century.
In the early 1920s, Harold and Roy Nelson, two young pig hunters, visited a farm called Brookfield and established a lasting friendship with Mary Crowther, the property’s owner. They spent numerous weekends and holidays at Brookfield, assisting with various chores and introducing Scouts to the outdoors. Drawn by the natural environment and outdoor opportunities, the area became a popular destination for scouting activities such as camping, bushcraft, and hiking. The first recorded Scout camp at Brookfield was conducted by St. Augustine’s Scouts, who traversed the Wainuiomata Hill with their gear loaded on a trek cart.
The Boys’ Brigade, an international Christian youth organisation, has maintained a significant presence in Wainuiomata since the 1940s. During this period, the organisation acquired land from the Scholes family along Coast Road to establish a dedicated campsite. This property, now known as Camp Wainui, has served as a venue for numerous Boys’ Brigade camps and activities over the decades. The camp offers a range of facilities, including accommodation options, bush walks, and adventure activities, making it a central hub for the Boys’ Brigade’s outdoor programmes.
Tourism Today
Wainuiomata is far off the beaten path for international tourists, but the area is a popular destination for locals in the Wellington region who want to experience the great outdoors. Visitors enjoy forest parks, a rugged coastline, and a variety of bush walks and mountain bike trails. The Wainuiomata River offers numerous swimming holes, and the Wainuiomata Baths are a popular attraction, often enticing visitors to make the trip over the Wainuiomata Hill.Parks and Reserves
Wainuiomata is surrounded by lush forested hills and a striking coastline. The Wainuiomata Recreation Area offers a perfect spot for picnics and serves as a gateway to relaxing bushwalks within Wainuiomata Regional Park, where visitors can observe native birdlife and follow the Wainuiomata River. Nearby, the Remutaka Forest Park boasts a wide network of hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through pristine podocarp rainforest. Beyond the forest, the rugged Wainuiomata coastline awaits, inviting you to enjoy fishing, big wave surfing, and exploring its dramatic shoreline.
Wildlife
The area is rich in native birdlife, including tūī, kererū (wood pigeons), and korimako (bellbirds). Conservation efforts in the nearby forest parks also protect kiwi and other rare species.
Fishing
Wainuiomata offers an excellent setting for fishing enthusiasts, with its combination of serene river environments and a rugged coastline. The Wainuiomata River provides an ideal spot for freshwater fishing, where anglers can try their luck at catching trout while enjoying the tranquil surroundings of native bushland. For those who prefer saltwater fishing, the Wainuiomata coastline delivers a more adventurous experience. Known for its rugged scenery, the coastal waters are popular for surfcasting.
Hunting
The nearby Remutaka Forest Park is a well-known hunting ground, with its expansive podocarp forests and rugged hills providing ideal habitats for animals such as red deer, goats, and pigs. Permits are required to hunt in the forest park, and these can be obtained through the Department of Conservation (DOC). Responsible hunting practices are strongly encouraged to ensure the preservation of native flora and fauna.
Cultural and Historical Sites
The Wainuiomata Museum is a charming local attraction that highlights the history of Wainuiomata, focusing on its development, cultural heritage, and natural environment. Another museum, the Wainuiomata Water Museum, is located in a picturesque valley along the Wainuiomata River and explores the area’s history of water management. Close by, visitors can see the old dam, which channels the Wainuiomata River through a spillway. Wainuiomata also features several historic sites connected to Wainuiomata’s early pioneers, offering further insights into its rich past.
Family Friendly Attractions
Wainuiomata boasts a range of sports fields, playgrounds, and nature parks, providing ample opportunities for walking and cycling. A popular attraction is the Wainuiomata Swimming Pool, which includes outdoor pools, water slides, and a dedicated splash area for children.
