Waipu, a small settlement in New Zealand's Northland Region, hosts annual Highland Games each December 31, celebrating its deep Scottish roots. The town, with a population of about 1,500, is known for Waipu Cove, a long sandy beach popular for surfing, fishing, and rock pooling.
A Scottish settlement in New Zealand
Hundreds of Scots settled in Waipu during the 19th century due to poor economic conditions at home. They were led by Reverend Norman McLeod, who first guided them to Nova Scotia in Canada, then Australia, before they finally settled in New Zealand.
Today, Waipu's Scottish heritage is visible throughout the town. A Gaelic sign at its border welcomes visitors, and streets bear names like Dundee Lane and Celtic Place. The Nova Scotian Settlers Memorial is built of Scottish granite and topped by a lion.
Museum and Highland Games
The Waipu Scottish Migration Museum, designed to resemble old Highland crofts, features interactive exhibits and artefacts dedicated to the town's Scots connection.
The annual Highland Games, held each year on December 31, are among the oldest events of their kind in the Southern Hemisphere, running for more than 150 years. Competitions include heavyweight events such as the hammer throw, shot put, and caber toss, along with Highland dancing, piping, and drumming contests, kids' races, tug of war, and other activities.
Family-friendly festival and community impact
The Games also feature a children's games area with inflatables and a rock climbing wall, plus stalls selling traditional Scottish food and drink, bars, a café, and gift stalls.
The Waipu Highland Games website states: "Our Waipu Highland Games are one of the longest-running Scottish gatherings in the Southern Hemisphere, offering fierce competition, spectacular entertainment and a full day of family-friendly fun. Run by the Waipu Caledonian Society for over 150 years with all Games Day proceeds continuing to go directly back into our local community."
"Our Games have gained the reputation of being one of the most prestigious Highland events in the world, each year attracting hundreds of top pipers, drummers, dancers and heavyweight athletes along with thousands of spectators from far and wide."
