About Us

The Kawhatau Outdoor Centre was formerly the Upper Kawhatau School and holds a special place in the hearts of local families who attended the school throughout the generations.

The centre has now evolved into a popular spot that caters for large groups, family gatherings and sporting groups with the Centres accommodation and facilities which include a large, well equipped kitchen, 60 beds with additional tent space and a drying room - all centrally located to river activities, walking tracks and local attractions. 

The Centre is perfect for school camps, having previously been a school, and still boasts a classroom facility. The Centre is unique in its setting with the Kawhatau River directly across the road, being surrounded by farmland reaching up to the native bush of the Ruahine Ranges yet still easily accessible allowing guests to enjoy their break in the quiet, rural setting while not having to trek miles on unsealed roads to be able to enjoy the experience.

The Centre is run by a dedicated group of volunteers from families who live in the Kawhatau Valley. We look forward to sharing our special part of New Zealand with you.