Kawhe Te Kauwhata was established in 2017 by two friends Tama and Kerri. Both are passionionate about catching kaimoana and living sustainably.

After 3 years supplying the local market with fresh fish and their specialty smoked eel Tama and Kerri decided to open up Kawhe Te Kauwhata. The pair haven't looked back and now employ 5 staff. They have also expanded the restaurant to cater for events and hire out the premises as a venue.

Te Kauwhata means 'store house' in Māori which refers to the storehouses that were built to protect kai like kumara in the 18th century. The Lake Waikare is Waikato's largest lake. This picture provides a glimpse into the customs and social life of Māori that fastly disappeard upon colonisation.Collection of the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua Whanganui. Gift of A.C Robertson and the Domney Family, 1972.