Whakamaru
| Whakamaru | |
|---|---|
  Whakamaru | |
| Coordinates: NZ 38°25′S 175°48′E / 38.42°S 175.80°ECoordinates: NZ 38°25′S 175°48′E / 38.42°S 175.80°E | |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | Waikato |
Whakamaru /ˈfɑːkəˌmɑːruː/ is a village in the central region of the North Island of New Zealand. The Maori words 'whaka' and 'maru' literally mean to give shelter to, or safeguard.[1]
The town was originally established as accommodation for the Whakamaru Power Station (Whakamaru Hydro Power Station) in New Zealand.
The Whakamaru switching station, adjacent to the power station, is operated by Transpower, and is an important node on the national grid.
During the summer months Lake Whakamaru is used extensively for water skiing. The Whakamaru Water Ski Club is very busy during the Christmas holidays, although water skiing courses are normally available all year round.
Kiwiburn, the New Zealand Burning Man regional, was held annually at the Whakamaru Domain, State Highway 30, from 2007 to 2013.
Whakamaru has a residents and rate payers association known as WRRA.
There is a grocer shop, That Dam Cafe, Ned's Place (a licensed pizza parlour) and a garage which cater for local people and the passing traffic.
Awhina Wilderness Experience take guided walks on the nearby Mt Titiraupenga.
References
- ↑ Mighty River Power Generation: Whakamaru, accessed 27 March 2008