Te Araroa & East Cape

First to see the sunrise, the gateway to sacred Maunga Hikurangi, and a living showcase of Ngāti Porou culture and East Cape history.

Te Araroa is the starting point for some of the East Coast’s finest - Maunga Hikurangi, Kai Cart, secret glow-worm caves, and the world’s first sunrise. It’s the birthplace of Sir Āpirana Ngata (spot him on the $50 note), the heartland of Ngāti Porou, and the doorstep to New Zealand’s most easterly point. An ancient pōhutukawa tree - the oldest in the land - stands guard as dawn cracks open another new day.

EAST CAPE, MAUNGA HIKURANGI & SURROUNDS 

Surrounding Te Araroa you’ll find spots that round out any essential East Coast journey. While the East Cape Lighthouse itself is now closed to the public, the drive along East Cape Road is well worth it for sweeping coastal views. Stand beneath Te Waha o Rerekohu - the giant pōhutukawa that anchors the town. Add Waihirere waterfall, Ruatoria’s rasta-flavoured music scene, and Whenua Māori restoration projects, and the Coast shows a side that’s both timeless and alive. 

Refuel with Kai Kart’s famous fish and chips, Rua pies, or a meal at Tikitiki’s RSA (Huey’s Kitchen), then look inland to Maunga Hikurangi, a sacred peak carved with stories of Māui and the first land to greet the daily sun. This is the best place to access the maunga, with a mountain hut stay and bookings essential for the climb.

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