Waitohu awa

The Waitohu Stream has always been important to the people living near. It has provided food, transport and a place to play. Māori fished for eels and near the mouth of the river flounder and whitebait.

In 1848 a mill was built on the river. It worked until 1861. The water from the river was used to drive the mill. ( Mill photo.)

Children have always played in the river. On the links below you can read about the memories of two people who lived by the river when they were children.

The Waitohu Stream, swimming and food gathering – an interview with John Huff

The Waitohu Stream, providing abundantly – an interview with Betty Raureti

Waitohu Stream mouth, 1965. Map from Kete Horowhenua