Other formats

    TEI XML file   ePub eBook file  

Connect

    mail icontwitter iconBlogspot iconrss icon

The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Kaeo

Kaeo is one of the most northern settlements in New Zealand, and is situated close to Whangaroa harbour, in the midst of the timber industry. Its distance from Auckland is 174 miles. Kaeo has a weekly mail, and also a telephone service. The place itself is one of the pleasantest little corners to be found north of Auckland. The scenery is enchanting, and a beautiful tidal river empties into Whangaroa harbour. This river runs through a very fertile valley, which produces a great variety of choice fruits and beautiful flowers. For persons broken down in health, no better place could be found in which to recuperate and grow strong again. The settlers are kind and hospitable, and the stranger soon finds himself among friends. It was in this valley that the captain and crew of the ship “Boyd” were killed and eaten by the natives in the year 1809. One at least of the old natives who witnessed the slaughter still (1901) lives and is quite strong and healthy, and enjoys a talk about the old times. Several relics of those bygone days are still to be found in the possession of some of the settlers, though the times themselves, with all their associations, such as missionary work amongst the Maoris, have given place to modern life and civilisation. Kaeo has two day schools, which are very well attended, and there are two churches —a Wesleyan and a Seventh Day Adventist. It also has a public library, three stores and one hotel. The natives are just now (April, 1901) about to open a church for themselves, and the building does great credit to the Maori people. Specimens of copper have been found, and mining for this ore may in the near future develop a rich industry and make the prosperous valley yet more prosperous. Many indications of coal exist; a good shale has also been discovered, and may prove valuable. Anyone desiring an Arcadian home, and a healthy locality to live in, should not overlook Kaeo.