Discover Ann Point in Whaingaroa Harbour
Ann Point is located at the northern end of Wallis Street, on the edge of Whaingaroa Harbour in Raglan, North Waikato. This site combines fascinating history and scenic views across the harbour and is home to several businesses and supports several fishing boats.
A Rich Maritime and Industrial Heritage
Ann Point has a fascinating maritime and industrial history dating back to the early days of Raglan. The area was once home to cement works and a commercial wharf where the cement was loaded onto coastal freighters for shipment to Auckland.
Eventually, the local cement works met its demise, and the post-industrial development of Ann Point has successfully balanced heritage preservation with modern amenities, with old warehouses converted into boutique stores, including a pottery gallery, offices, and a popular fish-and-chip shop. The converted cement storage silos now serve as unique apartments.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Ann Point is an excellent location for wildlife viewing, including the occasional seal. Birdlife is abundant, with shags, gulls, and other seabirds frequently seen in the area.
Historical Significance and Māori Heritage
Ann Point holds historical importance for Māori communities, having been a key location for fishing and transportation. Along the edge of the wharf, several panels provide insights into the voyage of the Tainui waka to Aotearoa and its journey down the coast to Kāwhia. These panels also detail traditional fishing lures and the navigation techniques used by Māori across the Pacific Ocean, known as Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa.
Best Times to Visit
Early morning visits can bring calm, reflective water and good light for photography. Low tide reveals more of the shallow harbour mudflats, so high tide tends to be more attractive. Summer offers the warmest weather and longest days, but it is also busy, especially during New Zealand holidays.
How to Get There
To reach Ann Point, you can take a 15-minute walk from Raglan town centre along Wallis Street. For a more scenic route, consider the 20-minute walk that includes a coastal boardwalk starting near the small wharf at the intersection of Cliff Street and Bow Street.
Other nearby places to visit include Raglan Domain, Wainamu Beach, Wainui Bush Park, Ngarunui Beach, Manu Bay and Whale Bay.
