Waikaia
Waikaia | |
|---|---|
Interactive map of Waikaia | |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Island | South Island |
| Region | Southland region |
| Territorial authorities of New Zealand | Southland District |
| Ward | Mararoa Waimea Ward |
| Community | Ardlussa Community |
| Electorates |
|
| Government | |
| • Territorial authority | Southland District Council |
| • Regional council | Southland Regional Council |
| • Mayor of Southland | Rob Scott |
| • Southland MP | Joseph Mooney |
| • Te Tai Tonga MP | Tākuta Ferris |
| Area | |
• Total | 1.26 km2 (0.49 sq mi) |
| Population (June 2025) | |
• Total | 110 |
| • Density | 87/km2 (230/sq mi) |
| Website | www |
Waikaia, formerly known as Switzers, is a town in the Southland region of New Zealand's South Island. From 1909 until 1959, it was the terminus of the Waikaia Branch railway. The population in the 2013 census was 99, unchanged from the previous census in 2006.
The town is in the Southland District and is covered by the Waikaia Community Development Area Sub-committee. Facilities include a museum, to which is attached an iconic "bottle house", constructed from approximately 20,000 wine bottles.
The historic Glenaray Station farm is located close to Waikaia. Several of the farms buildings are Heritage New Zealand-classified structures.