Tinui

Tinui was the site of the world's first Anzac Day service on 25 April 1916 - a defining moment in New Zealand history. This tiny settlement is 40 minutes' drive from Masterton on the road to Castlepoint.

Every year on Anzac Day hundreds flock to take part in commemorations. You can visit the church at any time of year, or walk up to the cross between 1 November and 25 April (from 2024).

The original Tinui CrossReplacing the Tinui Cross 1965

Stop for a look, or stay the night

Tinui is worth a stop just for a break in the drive to Castlepoint. But there's also great accommodation in the area. Talk to an isite Visitor Information Centre or book a bed right now.

The ANZAC Story

In 1914 there were over a thousand single men in the area, and many volunteered to go to war. In 1916 Rev. Basil Ashcroft held an ANZAC ceremony at Tinui's Church of the Good Shepherd and then erected a cross on top of Mount Maunsel which overlooks the village. While the original cross has been replaced, it is still in its original position.

Visit the cross on the hill

If you're fit and have a couple of hours to spare, you can climb to the summit on the Tinui Anzac Walkway. The walk is open from 1 November to 25 April (from 2024). It starts from the Tinui Cemetery and climbs through native bush and private farmland. Pick up a brochure from an isite Visitor Information Centre or call into the Tinui Cafe and Bar for more information.

Things to do nearby

  • Stop at Rewanui Forest Park on your way to Tinui (it's just before the Riversdale turn-off) - a series of of loop walks through a 334 hectare farm, taking in native bush and pine forest. 
  • Cycle the Rahui Coastal Loop for 65km over tar sealed and gravel roads, coastal cruising and native bush, and of course some hills, with a night in the country and a night at Castlepoint.
  • Find the Craft Studio nestled on Rewa Rewa Station, a Sheep and Beef hill country farm in Tinui, where owner Patrizia's passion for NZ Wool & Fibre is clearly evident in the wide range of natural wool products available for sale, along with regular Craft Days that are free to attend.