According to Rangitāne tradition, the Manawatū Gorge was formed by a giant tōtara tree known as Okatia, who once stood on the Puketoi ranges to the east. Okatia became incensed with a desire to reach the sea and so headed west from its Puketoi home and encountered the great Ruahine and Tararua mountain ranges. This it overcame, creating in its wake a great mountain pass which became known as Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge.

At the eastern mouth of Te Āpiti is Te Waha o te Kurī, for over 100 years it has played an important role as the crossing point to get from east to west and as an interface between the Manawatū River and the community. As well as being historically and culturally significant, Te Waha o te Kurī has become a prominent resting point and picnic area for visitors and residents alike. Visit the whare to find out more about this special spot.