Charlie Haua: A Tauranga Legend

Charlie Haua's Cap
Image courtesy of Tauranga Heritage Collection

This cap, worn by Charles Haua (known as Charlie) is just one of several items in the Tauranga Heritage Collection which belonged to this well known and popular Tauranga resident. The cap is thought to be connected to the Cadet Old Boy’s Rugby Football Club. Charlie was the Club’s first captain and represented the Bay of Plenty in 1929. Later he became a life member of the Tauranga Rugby Association. A talented sportsman he was greatly involved in the local sporting scene; competing in rowing, rugby, hockey, sailing and gymnastics.

Charlie Haua outside his Blacksmith Shop Grey Street, 1965
Image courtesy of Tauranga Heritage Collection

Born in Tauranga in 1903 Charlie attended Tauranga District High School and went on to become one of the towns best known and longest serving blacksmiths. Working for forty-nine years as a smithy, in ‘retirement’ he made thousands of horseshoes for visitors to the Tauranga District Museum and Historic Village. In 1976 he was awarded the British Empire Medal for his services to the community.

Charlie Haua working his trade at Tauranga Historic Village
Image courtesy of Tauranga Heritage Collection