the whenua

Hatepe is located just off State Highway 1, a short 20 minutes drive from Taupo town, 25km north of Turangi. Hatepe is a quiet lakeside settlement populated with holiday homes and whanau papakainga. The area is surrounded with native bush and from the lakefront, holds stunning views of Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. Adjacent to the Hinemaiaia River, the village is renowned as an anglers paradise, and is cherished by all who call Hatepe home.

HATEPE VILLAGE

Hatepe Village is a beautiful community with holiday homes and family baches placed on leasehold land. Hatepe Village began in the 1930’s Robert and Bella Morehu allowed a few anglers and their families to camp on the lakefront during the summer months. When the Hinemaiaia River was dammed in the 1940’s, the camping area was covered by the rising lake. Regular campers asked if they could erect small huts and from there the village grew. The land lease was formalised in the 1970’s and the collective lessees are now represented by the Hatepe Residents Association.

marae / Pavilion

The marae is situated behind the original Morehu homestead and is the meeting place for Hatepe AGM’s and various hui / events. There is a large meeting room, toilets, and a full commercial kitchen and dining area.

Opposite the marae are astro-turf tennis courts which are used by all residents of Te Makomako and Hatepe Village. The marae is available for hire. For bookings or for more information please contact Strettons (Opawa Rangitoto 2C Secretary).

hINEMAIAia RIVER

The Hinemaiaia River flows northwest from Kaimanawa Forest Park, flowing into the eastern shore of Lake Taupo at Hatepe. It drains the Hinemaiaia 1B dam, and for this reason its flows are moderated by the power scheme. It is a popular fly fishing stream surrounded by native bush which has seen an increase in the population of native birds. Opawa Rangitoto 2C Incorporation are the kaitiaki of the river and view it as a taonga to Hatepe and surrounding areas.

PARKS AND RESERVES

There are many reserves around Hatepe which are maintained by Opawa Rangitoto 2C Incorporation as well as Taupo District Council and the Department of Conservation. The areas are well maintained and protected to encourage the growth of native wildlife and the preservation of natural resources.