Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ahikaa Adventures
CULTURAL TOUR
( 09-409 8228;
www.ahikaa-adventures.co.nz
; tours $70-190)
Maori culture permeates these
tours, which can include sand-surfing, kayaking, fishing and pigging out on traditional
kai
(food).
Sleeping & Eating
Unless you're a happy camper you won't find much decent accommodation up here.
Pukenui - literally 'Big Stomach' - is the best place to fill yours; there's a cafe,
takeaways and grocery store. Another option is the friendly fishing club at Houhora.
North Wind Lodge Backpackers
HOSTEL $
( 09-409 8515;
www.northwind.co.nz
;
88 Otaipango Rd, Henderson Bay; dm/s/tw/d $30/60/
80/80)
Six kilometres down an unsealed road on the Aupouri peninsula's east side, this
unusual turreted house offers a homely environment and plenty of quiet spots on the
lawn to sit with a beer and a book.
DOC Campsites
CAMPSITES $
(
www.doc.govt.nz
;
sites per adult/child $10/5)
There are spectacularly positioned sites at Ka-
powairua, Tapotupotu Bay and Rarawa Beach. Only water, composting toilets and cold
showers are provided. Bring a cooker, as fires are not allowed, and plenty of repellent to
ward off mosquitoes and sandflies. 'Freedom/Leave No Trace' camping is allowed along
the Cape Reinga Coastal Walkway.
Getting There & Around
Apart from numerous tours, there's no public transport past Pukenui, which is linked to
As well as Far North Rd (SH1), rugged vehicles can travel along Ninety Mile Beach
itself. However, cars have been known to hit soft sand and be swallowed by the tides -
look out for unfortunate vehicles poking through the sands. Check tide times before set-
ting out; avoid it 2½ hours either side of high tide. Watch out for 'quicksand' at Te Paki
Stream - keep moving. Many car-rental companies prohibit driving on the sands; if you
get stuck, your insurance won't cover you.
Fill up with petrol before hitting the Aupouri Peninsula.
