“Big cities are rushed and anonymous, small towns are more personable, and it’s slower and quieter.”Morrissey-Butler said the Hokianga epitomised everything special about the Far North and had “the best authentic Kiwi experiences”. For Rāwene resident Erina Williams, the simplicity of summers in the small town is unforgettable. Rāwene resident Erina Williams says the town has more to offer now than when she was a child growing up in the town. Part-time Rāwene resident Hayden Cowper says small towns have a lot to offer. Photo / Yolisa TswanyaCowper said visitors heading to other small towns like Ōpononi often drifted through.

Source: New Zealand Herald December 29, 2025 07:11 UTC