The Republic of Whangamomona: A Tiny Nation Born from Rebellion and Beer
Nestled in the heart of rural New Zealand, the Republic of whangamomona is a testament to the power of community spirit and a good sense of humor.What began as a protest against local government reform has blossomed into a beloved biennial celebration that draws visitors from across the globe.
“It started as a gag,” says vanessa Kennedy, chair of the Republic Committee, standing in the middle of a quiet road in this remote village. In 1989, the Republic of Whangamomona was born out of frustration. Residents were told they would no longer be part of the Taranaki region but instead would join the Manawatu-Whanganui district, whose facilities were a four-hour drive away.
“We were not very happy about being taken out of Taranaki so we rebelled,” Kennedy recalls. “At the pub here one night, a few of us got together and decided no, we’re going to become a republic.”
And so, on November 1, 1989, the Republic of Whangamomona declared its independence. Today, this tiny nation of just 21 residents boasts its own passport, flag, border post, and even a president.
A Republic with a Purpose
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the village,founded in the late 19th century as a byproduct of the logging industry,retains much of its historic charm. Its short main street is lined with original buildings, including the iconic Whangamomona Hotel, a flagship establishment that wouldn’t look out of place in the American Old West.Despite its whimsical origins, the Republic of Whangamomona serves a practical purpose. Local rates are paid to Stratford,but regional rates for services like land management and pest control go to Manawatu. “We wanted to pay all our rates to Taranaki because we use all Taranaki facilities,” Kennedy explains.
Republic Day: A Celebration of community
What began as a protest has evolved into a cherished tradition. Republic Day, once an annual event, is now celebrated biennially and has become a major draw for locals and tourists alike. Stalls line the main street, selling local crafts and goods, while activities like sheep shearing, possum skinning, and whip-cracking lessons showcase the unique facets of rural life.
Jay Will, who has attended republic Day celebrations for 10 years, describes the village as “a lovely place, very friendly, middle of nowhere, that’s the whole fun about it.”
The event also serves as a fundraiser for the community. “All the money goes straight back into the community to give everybody what they need,” says Kennedy. Funds have been used to purchase defibrillators, support schools, and sponsor local sports teams.
The Presidential Election: A Rooster, a Unicorn, and a Barman
The highlight of Republic Day is the election of a new president.In the most recent election, incumbent John Herlihy faced off against barman George, a rooster, and an imaginary unicorn.Herlihy,whose great-grandfather hailed from Castleisland,Co Kerry,was re-elected for what he recalls as “the third or fourth time.”
George, originally from the Czech Republic and living in the old post office that doubles as the town’s “Czech embassy,” came in a close second.The rooster garnered a respectable 192 votes, while the unicorn was nowhere to be seen.
In his acceptance speech, delivered from the back of a flatbed lorry outside the hotel, Herlihy assured the crowd there would be no need for a coup during the transition. “I’ll come down any night and have a beer with anybody,” he said. “There’s always somebody arriving. If it’s not a local,it’s a tourist.I love talking to them and listening to their stories.”
A Legacy of Laughter and Unity
The Republic of Whangamomona is more than just a quirky tourist attraction.It’s a symbol of resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of community. As Kennedy puts it, “it’s about bringing people together and having a bit of fun.”
for those traveling along State Highway 43, known as the Forgotten World Highway, a stop in Whangamomona offers a chance to get their passport stamped and experience a slice of New Zealand’s most unique republic.
| Key Facts About the Republic of Whangamomona |
|————————————————–|
| Population | 21 (village), 150 (district) |
| Founded | November 1, 1989 |
| Republic Day | Biennial celebration in January |
| President | John Herlihy |
| Main attractions | Whangamomona Hotel, sheep racing, presidential election |
| Community Impact | Funds raised support defibrillators, schools, and sports teams |
Whether you’re drawn by the history, the humor, or the chance to witness a rooster run for president, the Republic of Whangamomona is a destination like no other.
Whangamomona: A Tiny Republic Born from Rebellion and Community Spirit
In teh heart of rural New Zealand, the Republic of Whangamomona stands as a testament to the power of community, humor, and resilience.What began as a lighthearted protest against local goverment reforms has grown into a beloved biennial festivity that attracts visitors from around the world.Today,this tiny republic of just 21 residents boasts its own flag,passport,and even a president. We sat down with Vanessa Kennedy, chair of the Republic Committee, to explore the fascinating story behind this unique village.
The Birth of a Republic: Rebellion and Beer
Editor: Vanessa, Whangamomona’s story is truly unique. Can you tell us how it all began?
Vanessa Kennedy: Absolutely! It started back in 1989 when the government decided to move us from the Taranaki region to the Manawatu-Whanganui district. Taranaki was our home, and the new district’s facilities where a four-hour drive away. We weren’t happy about it,so one night,a few of us gathered at the pub and decided to declare our independence. It was meant to be a gag, but it quickly became something much bigger.
A Republic with a purpose
Editor: Beyond the humor, does the Republic of Whangamomona serve a practical purpose?
Vanessa Kennedy: Definitely. While our rates are paid to Stratford, regional services like land management and pest control are handled by Manawatu. We wanted to contribute to Taranaki because that’s where we use all our facilities. The republic became a way for us to express our identity and advocate for our needs.
Republic Day: A Celebration of Community
Editor: Republic Day seems to be the heart of Whangamomona’s charm. Can you describe what it’s like?
Vanessa Kennedy: Republic Day is now a biennial event, but it’s still as vibrant as ever. The main street comes alive with stalls selling local crafts, and we have activities like sheep shearing, possum skinning, and whip-cracking lessons. It’s a celebration of rural life, and it’s also a fundraiser for the community. The money raised goes towards things like defibrillators, schools, and local sports teams.
The Presidential Election: A Rooster,a Unicorn,and a Barman
Editor: The presidential election sounds like a lot of fun. What can you tell us about it?
Vanessa Kennedy: Oh, it’s a riot! In the last election, our incumbent president, John Herlihy, faced off against a barman, a rooster, and an imaginary unicorn. John won, but it was a close race—the rooster got 192 votes! The election is all about having a good laugh and bringing people together. John even joked in his acceptance speech that he’s always happy to share a beer with anyone who visits.
A Legacy of Laughter and unity
Editor: What does the Republic of Whangamomona mean to you?
Vanessa Kennedy: It’s about more than just having fun—it’s about unity and resilience. the Republic brings people together,whether they’re locals or tourists. It’s a reminder that even in the middle of nowhere, a strong community can create something truly special.
Conclusion
The Republic of Whangamomona is a shining example of how humor and creativity can bring people together. From its rebellious beginnings to its quirky traditions, this tiny republic has become a symbol of community spirit and resilience. Whether you’re drawn by the history, the humor, or the chance to see a rooster run for president, Whangamomona is a destination like no other.
