Wairarapa Stories
Our People
The story of Wairarapa is the story of its people, from the earliest inhabitants to those living in the region today.
Our Places
The Wairarapa is filled with special places, from seaside location to mountain tops, to towns laid out in the shape of a Union Jack.
Natural Events
Earthquakes, floods and fires have shaped the way Wairarapa has developed.
Transport
From waka to horse and oxen drawn vehicles, to motorised transport, Wairarapa people have had many methods of getting around.
Recreation
From hockey to hunting, rugby to running, and swimming to surfing, Wairarapa people have taken their recreation in many ways.
Farming
Wairarapa has long been regarded as one of the country’s premier regions for agriculture.
Buildings
Wairarapa is home to many interesting buildings, many of which have suffered earthquake damage.
WWI
Wairarapa sent thousands of young men to fight in the battlefields on the other side of the world in 1914-1918. Not all returned.
Pākehā Settlement
The first Pākehā settlements in Wairarapa, Greytown and Masterton were established in 1853.
Influenza
The world-wide influenza pandemic reached Masterton in 1918.
South African War
Wairarapa soldiers fought in the first war of the 20th centry – the South African War.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Queen Elizabeth Park is Masterton’s premier park, with a rich and varied history.