Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 022 630 5705;
www.blueadventures.co.nz
; lessons per hour $60-75)
Based in Matakana, but offering
kitesurfing, paddle boarding and wakeboarding lessons, and tours from Auckland to
Mangawhai. Also jetboat tours (per person $75 to $300) along the Matakana coast.
BICYCLE RENTAL
Matakana Cycle Hire
( 09-423 0076;
www.matakanabicyclerental.co.nz
;
951 Matakana Rd; half-/full-day hire $30/40, tours from $60)
Bike hire to explore local vineyards and beaches.
Omaha Beach
The nearest swimming beach to Matakana, Omaha has a long stretch of white sand, good
surf and ritzy holiday homes.
BEACH
Brick Bay Sculpture Trail
(
www.brickbaysculpture.co.nz
;
Arabella Lane, Snells Beach; adult/child $12/8; 10am-5pm)
After taking an
hour-long artistic ramble through the beautiful grounds of Brick Bay Wines, recuperate
with a wine tasting at the architecturally impressive cafe.
PARK
Morris & James
(
www.morrisandjames.co.nz
;
48 Tongue Farm Rd; 9am-5pm)
Watch the potters at work during
the free daily tour (11.30am) or just call in to check out the colourful finished products
and the courtyard cafe.
ARTS & CRAFTS
Sleeping
HOLIDAY PARK
$
Sandspit Holiday Park
( 09-425 8610;
www.sandspitholidaypark.co.nz
;
1334 Sandspit Rd; sites from $17, units $70-120; )
A
camping ground masquerading as a pioneer village, this place incorporates historic build-
ings and faux shopfronts into its facilities. It's right by the water at Sandspit.
Matakana Country Lodge
( 09-422 3553;
www.matakanacountry.co.nz
;
149 Anderson Rd; r $275-375; )
It's only five minutes
from Matakana by way of an unsealed road and a long driveway, but this lodge offers
tranquillity in bucketloads and expansive views over the countryside. The three guest
rooms have the run of the entire villa, including the kitchen, pool and spa.
B&B
$$$
