Kaponga

Kaponga
The Kaponga Logo
Interactive map of Kaponga
Coordinates: 39°25′S 174°08′E / 39.417°S 174.133°E / -39.417; 174.133
CountryNew Zealand
RegionTaranaki Region
Territorial authoritySouth Taranaki District
Ward
  • Eltham-Kaponga General Ward
  • Te Kūrae Māori Ward
CommunityEltham-Kaponga Community
Electorates
Government
 • Territorial AuthoritySouth Taranaki District Council
 • Regional councilTaranaki Regional Council
 • Mayor of South TaranakiPhil Nixon
 • Whanganui MPCarl Bates
 • Te Tai Hauāuru MPDebbie Ngarewa-Packer
Area
 • Total
1.56 km2 (0.60 sq mi)
Population
 (June 2025)
 • Total
360
 • Density230/km2 (600/sq mi)

Kaponga is a small town in the southern part of the Taranaki region of New Zealand. It is known as "The Gateway to Dawson's Falls" on Mount Taranaki. Kaponga is located inland from Manaia and Eltham, and is on the main road connecting Eltham to Ōpunake. Ōpunake is 26 kilometres (16 mi) to the west and Eltham is 13 km to the east. Auroa lies to the south-east. Manaia is 15 kilometres (9 mi) south of Kaponga.