About Manawahe
Manawahe is a rural community set in the rolling hills south of Matatā and north of Rotomā, within the Whakatāne District and Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand’s North Island. Nestled west of the Rangitaiki Plains, Manawahe combines natural beauty, deep cultural roots, and a strong community spirit. At the heart of the area stands Iramoko Marae, home to the hapū Te Tāwera of the iwi Ngāti Awa, which remains a cornerstone of cultural life in Manawahe.
The people of Manawahe reflect its diversity and resilience. From second and third-generation families who trace their roots back to the first settlers in 1901, to newcomers from across New Zealand and the wider world. Many residents are farmers or lifestyle block owners. While others simply enjoy a rural lifestyle, and the central location that allows them to commute to work in Whakatāne, Rotorua, or Tauranga.
Manawahe is also a place of rich biodiversity. Local groups such as the Manawahe Eco Trust are dedicated to pest control and the protection of native species, particularly the rare and treasured kōkako. Their efforts ensure that Manawahe remains not only a place to live, but also a sanctuary for nature.
More history coming soon. If you have something to add or a correction to make. Contact Us.
Our Local Hall & Committee
The Manawahe District Society Incorporated is a community-led organisation dedicated to supporting the Manawahe community. We advocate for local issues with councils and other authorities, coordinate the management and upkeep of the Manawahe Hall, and encourage community events, initiatives, and activities that bring residents together and strengthen our district. Find out more here.
Rangitāiki Community Board
Our local representation on the Whakatāne District Council is the Rangitāiki General Ward and Rangitāiki Māori Ward which includes the communities of Edgecumbe, Matatā, Te Teko, Awakeri and Te Mahoe. Information can be found here about our local representatives.
Schools
In Zone – Funded (Free) Buses
A free school bus service from Manawahe is provided for students to attend Mātata Public School and Rangitaiki College as these two schools sit withing the allocated Transport Eligibility Zone (TEZ) for Manawahe students. All other options require other transport options
Out Of Zone – Non Funded
There are several other schools within the district that students can consider. Enrolment numbers are subject to each school’s capacity, and some require out-of-zone ballots. Transport options for these schools may include dedicated private bus services, either organised by the school or operated by private companies.
Early Childhood
Rangitihi Kohanga Reo
Te Rangitihi Kohanga Reo is a licensed early childhood education service that provides a total immersion Māori environment. Based at 8 Marae Lane, Matatā 3194. Find out more here.
Kōhanga Reo o Te Teko
Te Kōhanga Reo o Te Teko is a licensed early childhood education service that provides a total immersion Māori environment. Based at 6 Te Teko Road, Te Teko. Find out more.
Seedlings Preschool
Set in a farmlike environment and designed to be spacious so each child has the space to grow and learn. Located on Putiki Road, 37 Putiki Road Edgecumbe. Find Out More.
Playcentre
Be involved with your child’s learning; play with them and alongside them. Playcentres are parent led early childhood education designed to create community and learning in one place.
Primary & Intermediate Schools
Transport Funded
Mātata Public School
The closest State Funded Full Primary School catering to children from Year 1 – 8. Located on Pollen St in Mātata Find out more here.
Transport Non Funded
Enquire with the school about admission numbers for out of zone students and travel options as some have buses that travel certain distances.
- St Joseph’s School Matata
- Otakiri Primary School
- Awakeri Primary School
- Edgecumbe Primary School
- Otamarakau School
- Lake Rotoma School
- Whakatāne Intermediate
Secondary Schools
Transport Funded
Rangitaiki College – Te Kura Tuarua ō Rangitaiki
Previously known as Edgecumbe College, this is the closest state funded High School catering to students from Year 9 to Year 13 and is located at 100 College Road, Edgecumbe. Find out more here.
Transport Non Funded
Enquire with the school about admission numbers for out of zone students and travel options as some have buses that travel certain distances.
Public Bus Fares
School Routes
Uzabus Eastern Bay of Plenty runs a users pays route to Whakatane Intermediate, Whakatane High School and Trident High School. These routes run from Matata contact Uzabus for pick up points and to be added to the list, you will need to purchase a casual or regular ticket. More information here.
Public Buses
There are public bus routes from Matata to Whakatane & Matata to Tauranga via the Bay Bus service.
Specialist Learning
These Schools in our area have specialist learning units. Please talk to the school about enrolment eligability and travel options. Funding is available for those that qualitfy.