import\articles\202\Follow the eel.html indexed_doc HTMLPlugin 786 Follow the eel.html Follow the eel.html en iso_8859_1 Follow the eel HTML http://articles/202/Follow the eel.html http://articles/202/Follow the eel.html -35.685900 35W 68 685 6859 -35.685900 174.335600 174E 33 335 3356 174.335600 HASH133b794fb331ee542cbfa9 1360633628 20130212 1360633634 20130212 HASH133b.dir <h2>Follow the eel</h2><p>Known as Otuihau to local iwi, majestic Whangarei Falls were historically a good eeling area.  This use is reflected today in the eel (tuna) marked track signs guiding visitors around and through the falls site and throughout the Hatea River walk.</p><p>Archibald Clapham bought the property in the late 1920s, reputedly to prevent the falls being developed into a commercial water mill.  In 1946 a local businessmens' association raised the purchase price by public subscription and the property was vested as a public domain.  Popular at the turn of the century as a picnic and relaxation spot, public enjoyment of the 26.3 metre falls and surrounding river area hasn't changed!</p><p> </p>