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Communities and People
Around 73,000 people call Whangarei District their home. Whangarei has a long and interesting history from its flourishing Maori settlement to the first European settlers and the developments of the 1900s through to today.
With its rich mix of peoples, its history and its geography, a strong sense of community and identity has developed
25% of the Whangarei community identify themselves as Maori from the tribes or Iwi of; Ngāti Wai, Ngapuhi, Ngati Whatua, Ngare Raumati, Ngāi Tāhuhu, Te Parawhau, Patuharakeke, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Manuhiri and Te Ākitai.
Whangarei people of European descent also celebrate their own diverse Scottish, Dalmatian, Dutch, French, Irish, Welsh, English and other histories and stories. More recent immigrants include South Africans, Pacific Islanders and Asians.
With its rich mix of peoples, its history and its geography, a strong sense of community and identity has developed. Whangarei’s location has produced a district of people, themselves descended from strong pioneer stock, that are resilient, tough and talented. People who will creatively solve challenges with the help of their neighbours and wider community.
