In contrast to other Wairarapa towns, the small centre of Eketahuna occupies a pretty site on the banks of the Makakahi River and is far from being New Zealands smallest town.  Situated on State Highway 2, 42km north of Masterton and 65km East of Palmerston North.

Its original Scandinavian name, Mellemskov, was discarded in favour of Eketahuna.

Eketahuna is nestled in the shadow of the beautiful Tararua Ranges and is steeped in Maori and Scandinavian history.   The early pioneers, Swedes, English, Norwegian and some Germans, cleared what was then known as "Forty Mile Bush". The Scandinavian settlers named the town 'Mellemskov' which literally translates as 'Heart of the Forest'.  The Maori named it 'Eketahuna' which literally means 'to run  aground on a sandbank'  (probably as this was as far south as the Makakahi River could be navigated by canoe), and this is the name by which it is known today. 

Today, Eketahuna is a pleasant, friendly, well-presented town which services a large rural area. Mainly sheep and dairy farming it is also noted for exotic beef  breeding, deer farming and horse breeding.

Eketahuna offers:   Heritage Trails;  Hunting;  Bush Walks;  Early Settlers Museum ;  Cottage Furniture Industries;  A picturesque 18-hole golf course;   sporting facilities (bowling, swimming, sports domain);  Trout fishing;  National Wildlife Centre at Mt Bruce;  Gardens;  Chartered Club;  Accommodation.