Discover Kawakawa: A Unique Blend of Art and History
Kawakawa, a small town in the Bay of Islands, Northland, with a population of around 1,500, is renowned for its world-famous Hundertwasser public toilets. This artistic landmark sets Kawakawa apart from other towns throughout New Zealand.
A Town with a Rich History
Originally established as a forestry and coal mining town in the 1860s, Kawakawa later transitioned to focus on farm services as coal reserves dwindled and kauri forests were depleted.
The railway was also extended to Kawkawa during its earlier history to carry coal to Opua. Today, this line still extends most of the way to Opua and is now a significant tourist attraction, operated by the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway. The line also forms part of the Twin Coast Cycle Trail, which runs through Kawkawa.
The Iconic Hundertwasser Toilets
The Hundertwasser toilets, constructed in 1998, are Kawakawa's most distinctive feature. Designed by Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, who moved to the Bay of Islands in the 1970s, these toilets reflect his passion for eco-centric, off-grid living and his unique artistic style. Hundertwasser's designs are known for their organic shapes and vibrant use of coloured glass and tiles, avoiding straight lines and conformity. The Kawakawa toilets, opened in 1999, are the only example of his architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. Sadly, Hundertwasser died in 2000 at only the age of 71.
Te Hononga Hundertwasser Memorial Park
Kawakawa's main road showcases other examples of Hundertwasser's influence, further enhanced by the development of Te Hononga Hundertwasser Memorial Park in October 2020. This park includes a plaza, a public park next to the toilets, and a building celebrating both Hundertwasser's legacy and local Māori heritage. The area also features a public library, a café, and nearby freedom camping facilities.
In Whangārei, the Hundertwasser Art Centre, along with the Wairau Māori Art Gallery, further highlights his unique perspective in Northland.
How to Get There
Kawakawa sits on the intersection of State Highway 1, heading north, and State Highway 11 to the Bay of Islands. It is 219 km from Downtown Auckland and 17 km to Paihia. Be prepared for heavy traffic during New Zealand holiday periods.
Other nearby towns of interest include Opua, Russel, Waitangi and Kerikeri.
