Village on the plains

Takapau, south of Waipukurau and just off SH2 has wide, tree-lined streets, many of them named after the family members of the town's early benefactor, John Johnston.

Silver Fern Farms Ltd has a large meat works at Takapau and Kintail Honey, a successful honey producer and exporter, has been based in Takapau since 1948 and employs between 16 and 24 people. Nearby Gevir Premium Deer Velvet processes deer velvet for the national and international market.

Art is alive and well in this Central Hawke's Bay town, the Takapau Arts Group own a premises in the town, easily recognised because of the mosaic art on the frontage.  The art group offer an excellent variety of mediums, from mosaics, painting, pottery, patch work and much more.

Oruawharo Homestead, built by John Johnston's son Sydney, was completed in 1897. This historic homestead is in private ownership but is open to the public for occasions such as Red Cross fundraisers, bus tours, art exhibitions and functions. The present owners, Peter and Diane Harris, are restoring the homestead, the grounds and outbuildings, as well as cataloguing the many large exotic trees around the property.

Takapau has three winemakers based close to the town, and a well-known golf course. One of the courses holes, 'The Styx', attracts visitors as well as passers-by, all trying to conquer the elusive hole. Home to Arran Station, the venue for some of New Zealand's top riders who come to compete in Arran's Spring and Autumn Horse Trials, Takapau also has a stock car and demolition derby club, which holds regular 'paddock skid' competitions to raise funds for various local causes.

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