Waipu

Tiny Waipu’s claim to fame, as it were, is its long and proud Scottish tradition. It was settled in the 1850s by a group of Highlanders who migrated via Nova Scotia, and the town has maintained a strong Scottish identity ever since. There are regular events such as Scottish Country Dancing in the town, and every January since 1871 the Caledonian Society holds Highland Games. The games feature piping and drumming competitions, as well as heavyweight events like the hammer throw and sheaf toss.

Waipu Museum tells the story of the town and its settlers for the truly interested; there’s also a good deal of genealogical information collected here for anyone with a family connection to Waipu.

Other activities around Waipu include surfing and swimming at Waipu Cove, and the glow-worm rich Waipu Caves.

Waipu is 40km south of Whangarei.