Ruakākā’s History
Literally translated, the terms 'rua' and 'kaka' conjoined as they are can mean 'a place where the kaka parrot hides, as in 'burrows or secretes itself'.
The kaka is a bird that was employed by our tupuna (ancestors) as a 'decoy' or 'distractor' whereby they would attract other birds' attention by their animated actions and lure them into a trap where they would then be ensnared. The kaka is also a metaphor for chiefs, and their plumage was employed in cloak making and weapons of war for those warriors of the highest rank.
The Local Iwi
Patuharakeke hapu were the first of the northern tribes to bear the brunt of any marauding war parties from the south and in effect fulfilled the all important function of 'distracting' the main onslaught until other tribes could marshal their forces.
‘Two Birds’
Surroundings
For others who live in Ruakākā- they take the meaning of Ruakākā to be ‘Two Birds’ - Rua meaning two and Kaka the bird. The vista you first catch sight of when coming over the Brynderwyn Hills will wow you for the remainder of your visit in Te Tai Tokerau (Northland). Over your stay at The Riders’ Rest, we know you will be wowed by the surroundings and views here.
We can offer advice on great riding routes both on gravel and sealed roads and other adventurous attractions available in our piece of paradise including blow-carts along the expansive white sanded beach of Ruakaka, climbing our many local Maunga (Mountains) - Mt Manaia, Mt Aubrey, Mt Lion and Bream Head, or enjoy a day shopping in Whangarei and visit the famous Hundertwasser, visit our local town of Waipu and learn about our Scottish history or explore the Waipu and Abbey Caves. You can use The Riders’ Rest as a base for further discoveries and day rides to places like Waitangi, the place of the signing of Te Tiriti ō Waitangi in the Bay of Islands and the great Tane Mahuta and the sandhills of Opononi on the West Coast - all only a mere few hours ride north.
