Rangitīkei literally translates to 'The day of striding out", Maori ancestor Hau named the Rangitikei River when pursuing his wife and her lover southward from Taranaki some 600 years ago. With long stride (tīkei) he moved one day (rangi) to the river he then called Rangitikei (the day of striding out).
Nothing has influenced the Rangitīkei district's landscape more than the mighty Rangitikei River as it has carved its way from its headwaters in the Kaimanawa Range to the Tasman Sea in the south, forming passages of majestic river canons, alternating with quiet stretches of sparkling trout-laden pools.
We are a district that offers freedom camping throughout, is motor home-friendly, and encourages the enjoyment of our great outdoors, We are super lucky to have businesses that work with our land to help our visitors and locals alike enjoy what mother nature has to offer.
Rangitīkei is home to bustling eco and adventure Tourism, A district full of the dramatic landscape, family-friendly fun, adventure, and a place like no other to make a lifetime of memories, new friends, and a connection to the land.
All the amenities of an urban lifestyle in a relaxed, adventurous & rural community, but without the traffic lights! Culturally diverse, naturally unspoiled, and perfectly positioned for a life of luxury in the slow lane, be a part of New Zealand’s best-kept secret and Visit Rangitīkei.
Doing Business in the Rangitikei
The Rangitīkei is home to many successful businesses, both small and large, in diverse and varied sectors.
With strong community support to shop locally and visitors coming through our District via state highways 1 and 3, retail shopping is a robust and growing industry with new developments taking shape constantly.
Our Quarterly Economic Update provides snapshots of data and insights regarding key sectors of the districts economy. You can also sign up to receive our Economic Quarterly Update by email.
For more information visit our Council website - Doing Business in the Rangitikei
FUN FACTS
- Annual hours of bright sunshine can average over 2,000 in our district. #justlikesummer
- Turakina River has 6 waterfalls over 4 meters in height and viewable from the road or via a short walk through DOC reserves. #instagrammoment
- There are 5 unique golf courses throughout the district including Rangatira – which is played over 3 different levels and has New Zealand's only electric cable car to get you from A to B, all while taking in the views. #practiseyourgolfswing
- We are centrally located to Manawatu-Whanganui & a stone's throw away from our capital, Wellington. #closetourbannewzealand
- Gumboots are an acceptable form of footwear for a formal event in Taihape. #gumbootcapitaloftheworld
- The Ruahines, Kawaka Forest, and Kaimanawa National Park are in our backyard #backourbackyard
- Rangitīkei has some of the clearest night skies you'll find this side of the hill. #stargazing
