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Waipawa is the second largest town in Central Hawke’s Bay and is a pleasant drive south on SH2 from Napier or Hastings. The journey should take approximately 30 minutes and takes motorists through High Street which is the main shopping street. It’s a historic spot being one of the oldest inland towns established in New Zealand.

Over the last few years the Waipawa High Street has undergone a renaissance with new stores, many of them of a boutique nature, and a facelift. No longer

is it a place to drive through as it's a good place to stop, fill the car with petrol enjoy a good coffee or a meal and browse the interesting shops. If time permits perhaps take a look at the Central Hawke’s Bay Museum too. Admission is very reasonable and it’s very well organised giving visitors a genuine glimpse of the past.

Although small, the community of Waipawa is well served with an increasing range of shops including several antique shops, a craft cooperative, several popular cafes, a fish and chip shop, a pub, a good old-fashioned butcher and a library.

The selection of shops and services also includes clock sales and repairs, health food, an appliance retailer along with a gift shop that stocks a good range of party supplies and gifts.

There’s a saddlery and clothing store in High Street selling top equestrian brands for humans, horses, dogs, lambs and cats. It’s well worth a browse with all sorts to tempt such as luggage, gifts, toys and jewellery.

So all in all it’s a great little place to shop with not too much hustle or bustle and you’ll be assured of a warm welcome. Why not pop down and see what unusual gifts you can buy?