This Place Has The World's Longest Name Made Of 85 Letters. How To Reach, Things To Do, More

New Zealand's natural beauty lies in the country's rolling hills, azure pastures and crystal-clear lakes. The air carries a sense of freshness, while the misty mountains and serene coastlines offer a quiet escape from the rush of everyday life. Popular places like Queenstown, bestowed with dramatic alpine scenes, and Lake Tekapo with its turquoise waters, capture this charm effortlessly. But did you know that New Zealand also holds the record for the longest place name in the world, with a total of 85 characters?

Located six kilometres outside Porangahau village in Central Hawkes Bay, Aotearoa, is a hill known as Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu. 

Keeping in mind the difficulty of pronouncing the name, it is simply called Taumata Hill. The name holds deep significance for the Maori tribe.

Taumata Hill History And Name Meaning

The word Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu translates to "the place where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who slid, climbed and swallowed mountains, known as 'landeater', played his flute to his loved one." 

It is tied to the story of a brave Maori chief and warrior, Tamatea, who lost his brother during a fight with another tribe. Grieved, he remained at the battle site for days, sitting on the now-famous hill and playing an instrument traditionally called the koauau, or Maori flute.

The longest place name in the world is in New Zealand
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Taumata Hill, New Zealand: Complete Travel Guide

Why Visit Taumata Hill

Taumata Hill is located in the rural Hawke's Bay region on the North Island. It is surrounded by farms, open land, and quiet roads. There are no big buildings or tourist crowds here. That is what makes the place special. It feels peaceful and slow.

People usually stop here during a road trip. It is not a full-day destination. It is more like a unique stop to stretch your legs, take photos, and enjoy nature.

Also Read: Which Indian State Is Called The Land Of The Rising Sun? Travel Tips To Watch The Perfect Sunrise

Best Time To Visit Taumata Hill

The best months to visit Taumata Hill are October to April.

• Summer (December to February): Warm days and clear skies. Best for photos.
• Spring (October-November): Green views and fresh air.
• Autumn (March-April): Cool weather and fewer people.

Travel Tips: Try to visit during the day. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal. The wind can be strong, so carry a light jacket. Avoid rainy days because the area is open and slippery.

How To Reach Taumata Hill

Taumata Hill is easiest to reach by self-driving.

• From Napier, it takes around 2 to 2.5 hours
• From Hastings, it takes about 2 hours
• From Wellington, the drive is roughly 5 hours

There is no direct bus or train. Renting a car is the best option. The road is sealed and easy to drive.

^{Taumata Hill.Photo Credit: Advisor.Travel}

Things To Do At Taumata Hill

• Take photos with the famous long-name signboard.
• Walk up the hill. The walk is short and simple.
• Enjoy wide countryside views from the top.
• Read the meaning of the Maori name on the board.
• Relax and enjoy the quiet.

Also Read: Travel Guide To Mattur: A Village In Karnataka That Speaks Sanskrit Even Today

5 Places To Explore Near Taumata Hill

1. Waipukurau: A small town close to Taumata Hill. Good for coffee, food and fuel. 

2. Hawke's Bay: Known for vineyards, beaches and food spots. Great for a relaxed stay.

3. Te Mata Peak: A popular viewpoint with amazing panoramic views. Perfect for sunset photos.

4. Cape Kidnappers: Famous for its gannet bird colony and coastal cliffs. Best visited in good weather.

5. Havelock North: A charming village with cafes, boutique shops and local markets.

Travel Tips For Taumata Hill

• Carry water and snacks. There are no shops on the hill.
• Wear comfortable shoes and a wind jacket.
• Mobile signal can be weak. Save maps and routes offline.
• Respect local land and signage.
• Keep the place clean and quiet.

Taumata Hill is ideal for travellers who enjoy simple places, road trips and unique stories. It is calm, different and easy to visit without stress.