Athenree: Homestead, Pā and Mineral Pools

Athenree combines local history with the mineral pools of Athenree Hot Springs; walks nearby and in the Western Bay of Plenty District offer a wider perspective beyond the town. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Athenree, you can start by distinguishing between the homestead’s history, the privately owned, non-publicly accessible pā, and the pools. Walks and activities in the surrounding area each have their own conditions.

History and different access conditions

Athenree Homestead was built in 1879 by Irish settler pioneers Hugh and Adela Stewart. It was a working farm for 30 years until they left in 1906. From the Stewarts’ arrival until their departure, Adela Stewart transformed the grounds from bare land into an estate with extensive exotic orchards, vegetable gardens that supplied the community, and flower gardens considered exemplary. A pictorial history of the house is displayed for visitors in the entrance area; the presentation may change.

Access to Athenree Pā is different: the site is privately owned and not open to the public. The pā is classified as a Category 2 Historic Place and is considered the oldest pā and the most frequently occupied site in the Athenree district. Cultural remains found there are around 500 years old; after its fortifications were built, the site was occupied at least three times.

Mineral pools: temperatures and rules

Athenree Hot Springs has two natural mineral pools with different temperature ranges. The larger pool is 33 to 35 °C, has an average depth of 1.3 metres, and includes a shallow area for toddlers. The smaller relaxation pool for adults is 38.5 to 40 °C; children are not allowed there. The temperatures, depths and access rules clearly distinguish the two pools.

The mineral water comes from an underground aquifer 250 metres deep. It is continuously pumped through the pools, whose water is renewed every three to four hours. The differing pool conditions and the stated water source are both specific features of the hot springs.

Wetland, walks and jetty nearby

Athenree Wetland is on Steele Road between Athenree and Waihi Beach, beside the Waiau River. The Athenree Wetland Loop is a 20-minute circuit with access from Emmerton-Steele Road between the two towns. Check the track conditions before setting out. Dogs, camping and lighting fires are not allowed in the Athenree Wetland Wildlife Refuge Reserve.

Separate seasonal rules apply to horses in the Waihi Beach–Athenree Estuary area. From the second Thursday in February to the third Wednesday in December, horses may be led or ridden on a signposted circuit from Albacore Avenue via Pio Road and Athenree Estuary to the existing shared walking and cycling path at Island View. Horses are not allowed in the dunes. Check the current rules before riding.

The new Athenree Jetty is on Athenree Esplanade, behind 12 Roretana Drive. It replaces the former, outdated jetty; the project is complete.

More places to explore in the Western Bay of Plenty District

In the Western Bay of Plenty District, the Katikati Town Centre loop trail runs from Haiku Park past haiku verses carved into rocks and the path surface. It follows the Uretara Stream, crosses a footbridge to Uretara Landing, and continues along the main street to murals and other artworks in the town centre. Katikati’s public art and the history of Athenree Homestead represent different cultural highlights.

A different scenic option in the Western Bay of Plenty District is the Orokawa Bay Walk. It starts at the northern end of Waihī Beach and leads over coastal headlands to Orokawa Bay; walking time is about 45 minutes each way. The track passes through dense bush with pōhutukawa, kauri and puriri trees, as well as native nikau palms. The bay is part of a 145-hectare scenic reserve. Tides and swell affect access, so take this into account when planning the walk.

Discover more destinations: Katikati, Pukehina, Te Puna, Tahawai, Whakamarama, Papamoa, Te Puke, Lower Kaimai.

For the broader travel overview: Western Bay of Plenty District.