Paeroa - Hauraki District

Originally a thriving port, the town was first laid out in the 1870’s.  Now an attractive rural service centre at the junction of three State Highways, busy Paeroa is “World Famous in New Zealand” and overseas – for its Big Bottle.  At 7 metres high, the Lemon and Paeroa Bottle is a permanent reminder of the therapeutic Paeroa Springs Water discovered before 1900, which, with the addition of lemon, became known as New Zealand’s own soft drink.

View Maps of Paeroa

Trout fishing is a popular pass-time in Paeroa – hosting the fly-fishing contest of the Auckland Angling Club.  The Ohinemuri, Komata, Maratoto streams all provide rainbow trout and present a challenge to the most ardent angler. 

Paeroa always had a boating heart.  Hence the Maritime Museum and the artefacts of the Northern Steamship Company. 

The site of the original gold rush in 1875, Karangahake and its “residential suburb” of Mackaytown, have returned to peaceful activities; fishing, outdoor pursuits, gardens, cafes and a winery tempt the visitor.

Development of the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway began when the Paeroa to Waihi railway line was closed in 1979.  The track follows the old railway formation including a one kilometre long tunnel, and passes several important historical features

The Ohinemuri River flows through the Gorge and good swimming areas and picnicking sites are easily accessed.  For the more adventurous, walking tracks lead into the Kaimai-Mamaku and Coromandel Forest Parks (maps are needed.

Having a camping weekend anywhere on the Coromandel can easily be planned from Paeroa.  Our four way road access is unique in giving visitors a varied choice of travelling; hills, coast or bush. 

Paeroa is centrally located to many main centres and approximate travel times to these centres are noted below. 

 *  The winding roads on the Coromandel Peninsula may require a greater time allowance.

General Information

Population

The 2001 census showed the population of urban Paeroa as 3,882.

Traffic flows

An estimated 10,000 vehicles pass through the township on a daily basis.

Hotels & Clubs

Two Hotels, one Tavern and two Clubs are situated in the township.  The Ohinemuri Club is associated with ‘Workingman’s clubs’ and the other is the Returned Serviceman’s Association.  An affiliation exists between both.

Industry

The history of the main industry has been the service to Dairy farming.  As larger factories were built so the smaller factories were closed and work moved from the district to Morrinsville.  Many of the support services have managed to survive by continuing to service the farming community. 

Community Services

A wide range and network of community services exist for the use of urban and rural residents.  The Paeroa Medical Centre combines many of the health services under one roof.  Visiting specialists also consult in these premises on a regular basis. 

Public Utilities

The township is fully serviced with water and sewage.  Maintenance and development are ongoing.

Recreation

Sports play a major role in the community.  Rugby, Soccer and Netball feature high on the list and are supported by clubs and organisations covering almost all recreational pastimes.  

Statistics and Other Useful information

Accommodation

Climate