BOPDHB History Whakatāne Hospital History Book | Page 14

Pukaahu (Awakeri Hot Springs) 1921. Photo: Whakatāne County Council Archive, 1921

In 1917, correspondence was received by the Whakatāne County
Council from Mr L Buddle, Solicitor, requesting them to ‘secure the land
containing the spring before it falls into the hands of private individuals.’
In December 192117 the Council received a report from the Government
Balneologist on behalf of the Department of Tourist & Health Resorts
stating: ‘The springs sit about 100 yards from the main road between Te
Teko and Whakatāne. They are convenient of access and are capable of
being put to excellent use for bathing purposes, and though of no great
therapeutic value (vide report on analysis) would make a pleasant and
popular bathing resort for the people in the surrounding district.’ At the
time of this report, the outflow from the spring was 60,000-100,000
gallons per day at a temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit (64 degrees
Centigrade).

17

Awakeri Hot Springs 1920-34, Whakātane County Council Records, (Whākatane District
Museum & Gallery collection, MS1 Box 32)

Page 9