I live less than an hour and a half from Tutukaka, and had heard that the Poor Knights Islands were one of the best dive spots in the world. I had been in meetings with Jeroen Jongejans of Dive Tutukaka as he shared his passion for the area. But I had never got around to going out there - it was one of those "one day I would love to...." places. I emailed them about a … [Read more...]
Step into our world
Maori guides lead us into the forest and out on the water. The Hokianga: Footprints - Crossings Maori tours and staying at the Copthorne Hotel By Tanya Cumberland and Charmaine Pountney "Step into our World" And we did, indeed – six of us, one evening in February 2007, on a journey called Footprints, Waipoua. Our Ngapuhi guides, Gray and Bim, opened the way … [Read more...]
Kawakawa and Kerikeri – toilets and history
The Bay of Islands The BOI is a must destination for travellers to Northland. But it should be noted that not all the attractions are on the water! We had spent a fabulous day on board Ipirihi overnight in the Bay, but on our way home I wanted to introduce Liz to a few other gems in the area. First stop the toilets - as travellers toilets are often something we long to find - … [Read more...]
A visit to Doubtless Bay in the North of New Zealand
Doubtless Bay is touted as the 'ultimate absolute beachfront' destination in Northland. It was autumn, and past swimming for me - but it is still a beautiful time to walk and explore, and the weather was crisp and clear. KariKari Peninsula Carrington Resort is one of NZ's luxury destinations - now with the Heritage Hotel chain it is set on the magical Karikari Peninsula. Its … [Read more...]
Whangarei Heads – magical playground in Northland
Whangarei Heads is east of Whangarei in Northland. From my home in Waipu I look across to Whangarei Heads - It is a magical place, and for the last 20 years I have camped there with friends. It is a peninsula - you don't go through there to get anywhere else - so only those who want to go are there. We camp on private land - an organic dairy farm near Ocean Beach. It is … [Read more...]