Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
10am-6pm Nov-Apr, to 4pm May-Oct)
, 5km from SH25, is filled with whimsical water-
powered amusements made from old kitchen knives, washing machines, bikes and toilets.
Two kilometres on there's a two-minute walk through bush to the 10m-high
Waiau Falls
.
A further 500m on, an easy 10-minute bush walk leads to an amazing kauri grove. This
stand of 600-year-old giants escaped the carnage of the 19th century, giving a majestic re-
minder of what the peninsula once looked like. The biggest tree has a 6m circumference.
If you enjoy the remoteness and decide to linger,
Wairua Lodge
( 07-866 0304;
www.wairualodge.co.nz
;
251 Old Coach Rd; r $150-235)
is a peaceful B&B with charming hosts,
nestled in the bush towards the Whitianga end of the 309. There's a riverside swimming
hole on the property, a barbecue, a spa and a romantic outdoor bathtub.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Whitianga
POP 3800
Whitianga's big attractions are the sandy beaches of Mercury Bay and the diving, boating
and kayaking opportunities afforded by the craggy coast and nearby Te Whanganui-A-Hei
Marine Reserve. The pretty harbour is a renowned base for game-fishing (especially
marlin and tuna, particularly between January and March). Fishing charters start at around
$500 and head into the thousands. If you snag an overfished species, consider releasing
your catch.
The legendary Polynesian explorer and seafarer Kupe is believed to have landed near
here sometime around AD 950. The name Whitianga is a contraction of Te Whitianga a
Kupe (the Crossing Place of Kupe).
