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Welcome to The Longest Place Name

The stories of heroic exploration in this mountainous and once greatly forested country goes back a very long way. Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa sailing-craft voyaged to the shores of these islands over a thousand years ago. These original people travelled across the land and named places that would become part of today’s heritage landscape.

One of the greatest explorers in the history of Aotearoa was Tamatea Ure Haea, also known  as Tamatea Pokai Whenua and Tamatea Pokai Moana (Tamatea the explorer of the Land and Tamatea the explorer of Oceans). Tamatea was born into a family of explorers, and he continued the legacy. He was a man of enormous curiosity and energy, who roamed throughout Aotearoa, from Muriwhenua to Murihiku – the far north to the deep south. Hence, the names associated with Tamatea and his journeys are to be found throughout the length and breadth of Aotearoa.

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Experience the Longest Place Name

Marama Mai – Experience the Longest Place Name

Marama Mai is an opportunity for visitors to connect with the people who whakapapa to this area Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu. Join us for a special korero with our kaumatua, who will share the stories passed down for generations about our tīpuna Tamatea and the wāhi tapu site locals call Te Taumata.

What to Expect:

  • Meet at the Sign: Begin your journey at the iconic longest place name sign, where you can capture a group photo – a perfect souvenir of your visit.
  • Gather at the Woolshed: After the photo, we will head to the Woolshed, a communal space for all visitors.
  • Storytelling & Morning Tea: Settle in as our kaumatua share the legends and significance of Te Taumata, followed by morning tea session (1 hour).

This is a unique cultural experience, offering insight into the history, whakapapa, and site of this place known as Te Taumata. We welcome you to listen, learn, and connect with the stories of our land and people.

Turn your sound up

Click the play button &  turn up your sound to enjoy the catchy tune and video shared by visitors to The Longest Place Name.

  

Address:
P.O. Box 7, Porangahau 4245


510 Wimbledon Rd
Pōrangahau 4292
Central Hawke’s Bay
New Zealand


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