Whananaki, New Zealand 5.08

Whananaki is a locality on the east coast of Northland, New Zealand. Whangarei is to the southwest. Te Wairahi Stream flows from the northwest into Whananaki Inlet, a wide tidal estuary which separates Whananaki from Whananaki South. Sandy Bay lies to the southeast. A long wooden footbridge connects Whananaki North and Whananaki South, with an alternative connection being a 6km road that crosses the river above the estuary. Hikurangi is about 22 km southwest of Whananaki South.The area was reputedly named by Puhi, the captain of the legendary waka Mātaatua. Whananaki means "kicking" in the Māori language, and the name arose because mosquitoes caused Puhi to sleep restlessly.Notable peopleWinston Peters, leader of New Zealand FirstJim Peters, politicianEducationWhananaki School is a coeducational full primary school with a decile rating of 5 and a roll of 43.