Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ing residential town (with shops, ATMs and a choice of eateries), Pauanui is an upmarket
refuge for wealthy Aucklanders. Friendly Tairua knows how to keep it real. Both are ri-
diculously popular in the summertime.
Sights & Activities
Various operators offer fishing charters and sightseeing trips, including
Pauanui Charters
(
021-227 4354;
www.epicadventures.co.nz
)
.
Paaku
Around seven million years ago Paaku was a volcanic island but now it forms the north
head of Tairua's harbour. Ngati Hei had a
pa
here before being invaded by Ngati Maru in
the 17th century. It's a steep 15-minute walk to the summit from the top of Paku Dr, with
the pay-off being amazing views over Tairua, Pauanui and the Alderman Islands. Plaques
along the way detail Tairua's colonial history, with only one rather dismissive one devoted
to its long Maori occupation.
MOUNTAIN
Tairua Dive & Marine
( 07-864 8800;
www.tairuadiveandmarine.co.nz
;
7 The Esplanade; boat dives from $200, PADI Discovery $25;
7.30am-5pm)
A solid operator with reliable service. Also hires snorkelling gear, kayaks and
paddle-boards ($25 to $40 per hour).
DIVING
Sleeping
Tairua Beach Villa Backpackers
( 07-864 8345;
www.tairuabackpackers.co.nz
;
200 Main Rd; dm $25-28, s $60-73, d $70-86; )
Rooms
are homely and casual at this estuary-edge hostel in a converted house, and the dorm
scores great views. Guests can help themselves to fishing rods, kayaks, sailboards and
bikes.
HOSTEL
$
Pacific Harbour Lodge
( 07-864 8581;
www.pacificharbour.co.nz
;
223 Main Rd; chalets $144-233; )
This 'island-style' re-
sort in the town centre has spacious self-contained chalets, with natural wood and
Gauguin decor inside and a South Seas garden outside. Discount packages are usually
available online.
HOTEL
$$
