We headed to Paeroa with a plan to ride the trail through to Waihi. Simple, easy day out… or so we thought. First stop was the iconic L&P bottle. You can’t come through here without grabbing a photo and honestly, if you’ve never tried L&P, do it. It’s one of those drinks that just tastes […]
Paeroa to Waihi: When the Ride Turns into an Adventure Read More »
Twin Coast Discovery Highway We left Whangārei and headed out along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway toward Ngunguru and Tutukākā, planning to stay a few days for fishing. That turned into a full week. The weather had its say but we still managed some solid fishing days without even needing to get the Takacat out.
Ngunguru & Tutukākā, Matapouri – Te Tai Tokerau – Northland Read More »
We based ourselves out at Whangārei Heads for a few days, chasing a mix of fishing, walks and a bit of time by the water. It’s one of those places that takes a bit of effort to get to, but once you’re there, you’ll be glad you made the trip. Whangārei itself is the main
Whangārei Heads: Te Tai Tokerau – Northland Read More »
We’ve passed through Mangawhai Heads a few times but never properly stopped. This time we did and it ended up being one of those easy, feel-good stops that just works. We stayed at a Park Over Property just outside of town, close enough to head in and out without any hassle. On the way in,
Mangawhai Heads & Mangawhai Cliff Walk: Te Tai Tokerau – Northland Read More »
We’ve been up Maungawhau – Mt Eden a few times over the years. Walked it, driven it, even watched Toni run it back in her rugby days. This time, we went back for a slower visit, just to take it in properly. Maungawhau is one of the most important maunga (mountains) in Tāmaki Makaurau. It’s
Maungawhau – Mt Eden: Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland Read More »
We headed into Cornwall Park and Maungakiekie – One Tree Hill for something easy and grounding. It’s one of those places right in the middle of the city, but once you’re in there, it doesn’t feel like Auckland at all. Maungakiekie is another significant maunga in Tāmaki Makaurau, with strong cultural and historical importance. The
Cornwall Park & Maungakiekie – One Tree Hill: Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland Read More »
Leigh was only a short drive from where we were staying around Matakana, and it’s a really nice, scenic trip to get there. It’s a small coastal town, but it has everything you need for a relaxed day out. We headed out specifically to snorkel at Goat Island Marine Reserve, and our first tip would
Goat Island Marine Reserve – Snorkelling Leigh’s Underwater World Read More »
We weren’t quite sure what to expect heading out to Tāwharanui, but it was only about 11km from where we were staying, so we thought we’d head out and do one of the walks to the Takatu Point lookout. Not having been there before, we parked up and wondered what the gates ahead were for.
Tāwharanui Regional Park: A Day That Has It All Read More »
We had always wanted to visit the Matakana Markets. Everyone raved about how good they were, so when we found ourselves staying nearby over the weekend, the timing couldn’t have been better. We arrived around 8.30am and ended up parking along Matakana Valley Road, about a 600 metre walk into the village. But honestly, that
Matakana Markets: A Morning Worth the Stop Read More »
We don’t usually go chasing challenging hikes. We stick to what we enjoy and know our limits. The Kauaeranga Valley Pinnacles Track sat right on that edge for us, doable but definitely a push. After hearing mixed things, we decided to give it a go. You head through Thames and turn right at the BP
Kauaeranga Valley Pinnacles Track, Waikato Read More »