If you’re exploring beyond Kerikeri, this coastal loop is a great way to see a quieter part of Northland without overthinking it. There are a couple of ways to drive it, depending on how you want to break up your stay. The full loop starts by turning off at Matauri Bay Road before you reach […]
Coastal Loop from Matauri Bay to Whangaroa Harbour Read More »
Kerikeri was one of those places we didn’t overthink. We had a loose plan to get out for a walk and see a few spots around town and just let the day unfold from there. The weather wasn’t playing ball, but it still turned into a really good stop. 🌿 Rainbow Falls Walk We had
Kerikeri: River Walks, History & Easy Stops Read More »
We based ourselves in Paihia for a week and used it as our hub to explore around Pēwhairangi – Bay of Islands. Easy to get around, plenty to see and a good mix of quick stops and places to slow down. Kawakawa State Highway 1 runs straight through Kawakawa and most people pass right through
Our Time in the Bay of Islands: Real Travel Experience NZ Read More »
Ngatea isn’t somewhere we stay but it’s somewhere we always stop. If you’re heading through this part of the country, it’s one of those places that just makes life on the road easier. What we did For us, Ngatea is all about resetting. We’ll pull in, stretch the legs, top up supplies and tick off
Ngatea: A Handy Stop That Just Makes Travel Easier Read More »
Kaiaua is one of those places we keep coming back to. No matter where we’re heading, we’ll usually find a reason to divert through here. It’s easy, relaxed and just works for the way we travel. What we did We pulled into our usual spot, a Park Over Property just before Kaiaua near Waharau Regional
Kaiaua: One of Our Go-To Coastal Stops Read More »
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 »