Gladstone, New Zealand


Gladstone is a lightly populated locality in the Carterton District of New Zealand's North Island, located on the Mangahuia Stream near where the Tauweru River joins the Ruamahanga River. The nearest town is Carterton 15 kilometres to the northwest, and nearby settlements include Ponatahi to the west and Longbush to the south. It was named after British prime minister William Ewart Gladstone.
Several other localities in the country are also called Gladstone - an Invercargill suburb, a coastal sawmill village south of Greymouth, a hamlet beside Lake Hāwea and an area near Levin.

History and culture

Thirty-four deceased soldiers from Gladstone and its surrounds are commemorated by a small roadside war memorial, and part of the main road between Masterton and Gladstone is lined with 36 memorial oaks. Why there are thirty-six rather than thirty-four oaks is unknown.

Marae

The local Hurunui o Rangi Marae is affiliated with the Ngāti Kahungunu hapū of Ngāi Tahu, Ngāi Taneroroa, Ngāti Hinewaka, Ngāti Kaparuparu, Ngāti Moe, Ngāti Parera, Ngāti Rangitataia, Ngāti Rangitehewa, Ngāti Tatuki and Ngāti Te Tomo o Kahungunu, and the Rangitāne hapū of Ngāi Tahu.

Economy

Gladstone is primarily a farming community and some viticulture occurs in the area. Viticultural activity is increasing as winemakers realise the potential of soil and climate that produce low yielding rich concentrated grapes. Gladstone also has a number of small businesses and industries, including cafes, homestays, and a wheelwright shop. The Summit Lodge is Gladstone's five star rated guest lodge which has been hosting guests since it was built in 2009.
The Gladstone Inn, known to locals as "The Gladdy", is Gladstone's local pub. It was voted the best country hotel in New Zealand in 2006 survey by the New Zealand Hospitality Association.
Gladstone also has a sports complex, built in 1979 - which is owned and run by the local community. Admiral Rd is often used by international cycling competitions and it was first "Everested" in 2017

Education

Gladstone School is the local primary school accommodating approximately 100 children. This has been the main school for the area since the closure of schools in Longbush, Maungaraki, and Te Whiti in 1968.
During the 2010s, the school gained popularity, taking children from Carterton, Martinborough, and Masterton.

Sport

A sports complex is located in Gladstone near the pub. It is the home of Gladstone's rugby union, hockey and netball clubs.
The Wairarapa Pistol and Shooting Sports Club has a shooting range in the area.