Hatuma: Lake Whatumā, Wildlife and Cultural Heritage

Hatuma brings together Lake Whatumā and several named memorial and cultural sites. Two distinct themes are central to planning your trip: nature and wildlife at the lake, and local memorial sites and historic buildings. The differences between these places can help you get your bearings in Hatuma and choose the highlights that are relevant to your stay.

Lake Whatumā: Nature and History

Lake Whatumā, also known as Lake Hatuma, is an oval, shallow lake covering about 160 hectares. An adjoining wetland fringe of around 76 hectares lies directly beside the lake. These figures refer to two distinct parts of the landscape—the water surface and the neighbouring wetland—and make it possible to compare their size without combining the areas. The lake is of high value for wildlife and is home to the largest population in Hawke’s Bay of the globally endangered Australasian bittern. For nature enthusiasts, this regional distinction is a special feature of the Hatuma landscape.

Whatumā was also an important Mahinga Kai area, particularly for eels (tuna), kōkopu, kākahi and native birds. This role should be understood in its historical context; it adds a cultural perspective to the lake’s natural significance. The 2025 Hatuma Half Marathon included a walking section on a route that circled Lake Whatumā clockwise, completing a full loop.

Memorials and Historic Sites

Two Category 2 historic sites are located on Hatuma Road in Hatuma. Woburn Station Homestead is at 216 Hatuma Road, and Woburn Station Former Manager’s House is at 210 Hatuma Road. Both are classified as Category 2 historic sites. Access to both is private.

The Hātuma war memorial is a memorial stone with a plaque. It lists men from the district who served in the First and Second World Wars.

The Hatuma Memorial Cairn is a cultural heritage reserve at the intersection of Hatuma Road and Settlement Road, covering 943 m². Hatuma Domain is at the intersection of Hobson Road and Settlement Road. It is a 5.6-hectare recreation reserve, listed as grazed in the Council plan adopted in 2022.

Whatumā Recreation Reserve covers the land west of Lake Whatumā. It is jointly managed by trustees appointed by the Heretaunga Tamatea Settlement Trust and the Aorangi Māori Trust Board. Check the current management arrangements again before visiting.

In the broader destination of Central Hawke's Bay District

The broader destination of Central Hawke's Bay District also has distinct nature destinations: A’Deanes Bush Scenic Reserve covers 38.5 hectares and is a remnant of the original forest of the Ruataniwha Plains, characterised by mataī and kahikatea trees. On the coast, the Te Angiangi Marine Reserve, established in 1997, protects 446 hectares between Aramoana and Blackhead. Together, these offer contrasting landscape themes within the broader destination: a remnant of the plains’ forest and a protected stretch of coastline.

Discover more destinations: Ruahine Forest Park

Back to the broader travel guide: Central Hawke's Bay District.