Waitakere City has a rich Maori heritage. The coastal belt to the west of the Waitakere Ranges was favoured by the Maori of the Kawerau iwi (tribe) and about 50 pa were built here to protect the coastal zone. Signs of early Maori habitation are still evident in Centennial Memorial Park, especially on islands and headlands which formed natural defence areas. The Kawerau were force to retreat from Muriwai into the Waitakere Ranges following the invasion by the Ngati Whatua. Today Maori make up about 11% of Waitakere City's population, and Maori language and culture are undergoing a rennaissance. Many of the City's Maori preschoolers being educated in Maori at kohunga reo (language nests) and the Hoani Waititi Marae is a national centre for Maori culture, education and the performing arts.
I think this would be a good family trip, well, when I get a family I can take them there! Seems sureal and relaxing, nice atmosphere. :)
I have heard that many
I have heard that many places in Oz and NZ are quite small (like the UK homes), is this true? Anyone on the forums that has been there? I dont think I would want to be cramped during a vacation, esp. if I am traveling across the world for it.