The History
Long before European settlement local Māori tribes were known to bring their battle wounded warriors to Te Waireka Springs to drink as they believed these very waters had healing qualities.
Te Waireka's rich history also ties to one of New Zealand’s most famous love stories, Hinemoa and Tūtānekai. Legend says a curse was placed on Hinemoa at birth and a great Tohunga brought Hinemoa to these ancient waters to lift that curse and succeeded. Read more on the love story of Hinemoa and Tūtānekai HERE.