KAIAPOI

History

The town developed in the 1850s on Kaiapoi Island, between the south and north branches of the Waimakariri River. Subsequent river works have channelled the river south of the town.  Kaiapoi, meaning ‘food depot’, has derived its name from the historic pa of Nga Tahu, which was located between the Waikuku and Woodend Townships. The character of Kaiapoi is distinct from the other rural towns in the district. From the 1850’s intermittently until the 1960’s it was a coastal trading depot and a base for processing industries. All manner of coastal and river trading vessels transported the produce of North Canterbury – timber, wool, potatoes, grain and flour, hides and tallow – out through the port of Kaiapoi and brought in goods that serviced the needs of the settlers.

Famous Landmarks

The site of the large Ngāi Tahu pa, Kaiapoi, is 11 km north of the town. Built in the 1700s, it was besieged and sacked in 1831–32 by the forces of Ngāti Toa leader Te Rauparaha. Kaiapoi's strong Maori and European history is documented in the Kaiapoi Museum. Kaiapoi is also home to the National Scout Museum

Real Estate & Design

Kaiapoi has a range of modest older bungalows that housed woollen mill employees, government built housing and a large number of family sized homes built in the 60’s in the south end. New homes have been built in the nineties in both Mansfield Park and Courtenay Downs with the last major subdivision called Moorcroft completed in the northern part of Kaiapoi adjacent to the golf course.

Shopping & Restaurants

Kaiapoi has many restaurants and eating establishments. These include the Bridge Tavern, The Crossing & the Riverview Restaurant.

Sport and Recreation

Boating, water sports, fishing and river carnivals are popular Kaiapoi activities. River cruises, like the historic MV Tuhoe trip, are a regional drawcard.  Kaiapoi's walkways, cycling tracks and picturesque picnic spots attract those looking for a leisurely way to while away a few hours, whilst the town’s shops, cafes and restaurants are a lively alternative.

Schools, Education and Institutions

In Kaiapoi there are three primary schools, namely St Patrick's School, Kaiapoi Borough School and Kaiapoi North School.  Both Kaiapoi Borough School and Kaiapoi North School have zones within the township.  There are no intermediate schools.  Situated in Ohoka Road is Kaiapoi High School which was opened in 1972 and caters for students from Years 9 - 13.

Distance from CBD and Travelling Distances

Kaiapoi is 19 kilometres north of the central city it is regularly serviced by buses.