Roadside Attractions in Porangahau

1 place worth pulling over for in Porangahau, Hawkes Bay, with what each one actually is, what it costs and how long to give it.

Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateapokaiwhenuakitanatahu

Porangahau, Hawkes Bay

This rolling hill in southern Hawke's Bay is famous for bearing an 85-letter Maori place name, recognized by the Guinness World Records as the longest placename of any-word geographic location in the world. A roadside sign marks the spot, offering travelers a chance to test their pronunciation of a name that translates roughly to 'The summit where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, the climber of mountains, the land-swallower who travelled about, played his flute to his loved one'. It is a quick and quirky photo stop for road-trippers exploring the rural countryside near Porangahau.

Planning the stop

It's free to visit. Hours and admission come from each attraction's own page, along with parking and directions.

Also worth a stop in New Zealand

Te Puke Giant Kiwifruit

Te Puke, Bay Of Plenty

Standing proudly as a tribute to the agricultural capital of New Zealand, this enormous corrugated fiberglass fruit celebrates the region's booming kiwifruit industry. Visitors can climb inside the hollow structure for a unique photo opportunity and browse the surrounding orchard shop for local treats. It is a classic example of New Zealand's famous penchant for oversized roadside landmarks.

Terror Tunnel and Forgotten World Highway Mailbox

Whangamomona, Taranaki

Located along New Zealand's remote and winding Forgotten World Highway, this quirky roadside stop features the Moki Tunnel—locally known as the Terror Tunnel—a narrow, hand-carved one-lane tunnel driven through the papa rock. Just outside sits a famously decorated rural mailbox representing the isolated spirit of the region. It is a quintessential photo stop for adventurous road trippers exploring the Republic of Whangamomona.

Giant Paua Shell

Riverton, Southland

Standing proudly in the coastal town of Riverton, this larger-than-life sculpture celebrates the iconic New Zealand abalone, locally known as paua. It serves as a tribute to the region's rich maritime and diving heritage, offering a brilliant photo opportunity with its shimmering, iridescent-painted surface that mimics the famous colorful interior of a real paua shell.