How did wairoa start?

Wairoa, a town in New Zealand's Hawke's Bay region, began as a small settlement around the Wairoa River, serving as a vital transport route for Maori and European settlers. Its growth was spurred by the establishment of the timber industry and the arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century. The town was officially founded in 1858 and developed as a center for agriculture and forestry. Over time, Wairoa became known for its rich Maori heritage and picturesque landscapes.