Ruatuna is a rural locality situated in the Waikato region of the North Island of New Zealand. It is located north of the city of Hamilton, along the eastern side of the Waikato River.
Historically, Ruatuna was a small agricultural settlement. Its development was closely tied to the North Island Main Trunk railway line, which passed through the area. A railway station, also named Ruatuna, served the community for many years, facilitating the transport of local produce and providing connectivity for residents. While the station is no longer operational, its presence highlights the area's historical importance as a stop along this significant national transport artery.
The name "Ruatuna" is of Māori origin. "Rua" can refer to a pit or hole, and "tuna" means eel. This suggests the area may have been known for its eel populations or for methods of catching or storing eels, which were a traditional food source for Māori.
Today, Ruatuna remains a predominantly rural area characterized by farming activities, including dairy and drystock. The community is small, and services are typically accessed in larger nearby towns and cities. The landscape is defined by rolling hills and proximity to the Waikato River.