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A pair of gigantic corrugated-metal jandals welcomes visitors to Whatawhata Berry Farm, turning a quintessential piece of Kiwi footwear into a playful roadside landmark.
Before you stop
Seasonal business: check current opening before travelling.
- Parking on site
- PParkingonsite
Private to your Passport.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Recommended arrival available
Onsite parking
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Big Jandals – Whatawhata
This pin marks the Big Thing itself. If stopping, choose a safe and legal place nearby.
37.79820° S, 175.16235° E
FIELD GUIDE
The story
The jandal is a New Zealand invention, and the original giant pair stands at a berry farm outside Hamilton.
The word is a contraction of Japanese sandal. In 1957 the businessman Morris Yock and his son Anthony began manufacturing the simple rubber footwear in their garage, inspired by traditional footwear Anthony had seen while doing business in Japan. The name was trademarked, the rubber was initially imported from Hong Kong, and Skellerup eventually took over supply and bought the business in 1987. Which of the two Yocks actually had the idea is, by the family's own account, not entirely settled.
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PRACTICAL
Plan your stop
WHAT TO EXPECT
Whatawhata Berry Farm’s current website explicitly identifies the site as home of the gigantic jandals, and NZ Jandals confirms the original jandals statue is displayed there.
ACCESS
The farm is at 1099 Whatawhata Road. Because the business is seasonal, current opening and parking arrangements should be checked before visiting.
COMMUNITY
Visitor Log
WHAT'S NEXT
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TRANSPARENCY
Sources & research
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