A new chapter

A new chapter is beginning for Kaiteretere Recreation Reserve, as ownership of the reserve returns to Here-ā-Nuku Trust, on behalf of Ngā Uri, the customary owners, following the passing of the Here-ā-Nuku (Nelson Tenths) Act 2026.

This significant milestone restores the land to its original owners and marks an important step forward for the Reserve and wider region. 

As part of this transition, you may notice the corrected spelling of Kaiteretere appearing here at the Reserve.

Kaiteretere is the historic name used by the customary owners and reflects the history of the whenua. The corrected spelling was established through Here-ā-Nuku Trust (Nelson Tenths) Act. Kaiteriteri is now officialy Kaiteretere, alongside corrections to Kaiteretere Beach, Kaiteretere Inlet and Little Kaiteretere.

Over the coming months, you'll increasingly see Kaiteretere Recreation Reserve used across our website, signage, communications and other visitor information as we transition to the official name. 

For our visitors, guests and community, we remain the same special place you know and love. Our day-to-day operations, bookings and activities continue as normal, and we look forward to welcoming you this summer. 

Why Kaiteretere?

Kaiteretere is the historic name used by the customary owners and reflects the history of the whenua. 

The Here-ā-Nuku (Nelson Tenths) Act 2026 formally corrects the misspelling and establishes Kaiteretere as the official geographic name of the locality. The Act also establishes KaiteretereBeach, Kaiteretere Inlet and Little Kaiteretere as official geographic names.

You can read the official New Zealand Geographical Board notice here: Notice of New and Altered Official Geographic Names under the Te Here ā Nuku (Nelson Tenths) Act 2026 - 2026-ln6252 | New Zealand Gazette

The Wider Story

The legislation is part of the resolution of the Nelson Tenths case, a long-running trust law case between the Crown and the original owners concerning land at the top of the South Island. It provides for legal title to certain lands to transfer from the Crown, as former trustee, to the trustees of Here-ā-Nuku Trust, on behalf of Ngā Uri. 

This is a trust law resolution, and not a Treaty of Waitangi settlement. 

What This Means For Your Visit To Kaiteretere Recreation Reserve

Nothing changes for anyone planning their trip or stay with us here at the Reserve. Bookings, addresses, and directions all continue to work as normal under either spelling, and will do so through the transition. You may notice both spellings appearing across official channels, signage and media coverage over the coming month and year ahead.

For further information, you can the Here-ā-Nuku Tenths website here: Home | Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust