Waikawa, Marlborough


Waikawa is a small settlement to the north east of Picton, Marlborough, New Zealand. Waikawa Bay opens onto Queen Charlotte Sound.
The New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage gives a translation of "bitter water" for Waikawa.
Although Waikawa has no shops with basic provisions, some basic items can be purchased at holiday parks, some accommodation apartments and many luxury holiday homes along the shoreline. Waikawa is an important New Zealand tourist destination because its large marina acts as gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and famous treks such as the Queen Charlotte Track.
Waikawa is host to Waikawa Marina which is one of the largest marinas in New Zealand. Waikawa Marina hosts 600 yacht berths and 70 individual lock-up boatsheds. The marina offers a typical range of modern on-site marine services and facilities. These facilities include a café/bar and accommodation.

Demographics

Waikawa had a population of 1,308 at the 2013 New Zealand census, an increase of 150 people since the 2006 census. There were 642 males and 669 females. Figures have been rounded and do not add up to the total. 88.2% were European/Pākehā, 16.6% were Māori, 0.7% were Pacific peoples and 1.7% were Asian.

Education

Waikawa Bay School is a coeducational contributing primary school with a roll of students as of
A native school existed at Waikawa Pa by 1877.