“Access to Ocean Beach’s Te Puia Hot Springs in the early days by Kāwhia residents was over the dunes of black sand that was slowly inching its way into the township until the early 1960s when this pine forest was established by the Crown to prevent any further encroachment of sand onto Kāwhia. Prior to the first harvest in the late 1990s the proprietors of Tainui Kāwhia Inc., one of the first Māori landowners, purchased Crown’s interest in the exotic trees covering some 1,000 hectares.
The more than eight hundred shareholders own the whenua for the benefit of future generations”.
Derek Wooster
Former chair, TKI Committee of Management.
Welcome to
Tainui Kāwhia
Incorporation
Who are we
and what do we do?
Tainui Kāwhia Incorporation (TKI) stands as a testament to the enduring connection between the land and its people, managing a significant expanse of commercial pine forest in Kāwhia. This incorporation, steered by a dedicated committee of management, not only oversees forestry operations but also holds commercial properties in the bustling city of Auckland. With an eye towards sustainable development, TKI has delved into the potential of mineral extraction from the iron-rich sands of Kāwhia, exploring avenues that could bolster the local economy while honoring the stewardship of the land. The incorporation's proactive approach in seeking new opportunities promises exciting developments, poised to enhance the prosperity of its shareholders and the wider community.
What’s Happening
at TKI?
Wānanga & Whenua Haerenga
28th of Feb, Kāwhia Community Hall.
On the 28th of February 2026, TKI will be hosting its second wānanga and whenua haerenga.
Shareholders are invited to gather at the Kāwhia Community Hall, 10.30am
Panui will arrive in your inboxes very soon.
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Community Consultation Meeting One 21/08/2024
Community Consultation Meeting Two 07/05/2025
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A Series of Honoring Our History
To truly understand who we are today, it’s essential to acknowledge those who laid the foundation for TKI. We are excited to kick off a special series highlighting the early figures responsible for establishing Tainui Kāwhia Incorporation and the stories from those pioneering days.
We begin our series with our tūpuna, Tom French, a visionary whose leadership and dedication helped shape our future. His contributions set the stage for us to sustain our heritage while embracing growth and development.
You can learn more about Tom French and his significance to our history here.
Important Notice for TKI Shareholders, Members of the Kāwhia Community and the General Public.
Tainui Kāwhia Incorporation is collaborating with the Ōtorohanga District Council to assess the vehicle access to the Ocean Beach project. We are exploring the possibility of granting a public easement across TKI land for this new access. It is important to note that TKI has not made any firm commitments, as the project remains in the feasibility phase.
For more information, click on this link to be taken to the ŌDC website.
Forest Update – Te Puia Road 24/07/2025
The trees to the left as you enter the forest on Te Puia Road have recently been harvested. The planting of the first tree for the 3rd Rotation is scheduled for 2025.
This morning, at 8:00 AM, planting commenced at the Lee Road / Te Aria o Te Wīwini junction to mark the start of this new rotation.
We will continue to keep you updated on progress and upcoming activities. Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding.
