West Coast NI Adventure

July - August 2024
  • Neil's on Wheels
  • Neil Turner
2 weeks off work!!! Read more
  • Neil's on Wheels
  • Neil Turner

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  • New Zealand New Zealand
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  • 12footprints
  • 14days
  • 66photos
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  • Little Waipa

    Jul 19–20, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌧 13 °C

    Little Waipa Domain in Lake Karapiro. Took a wee detour to Matamata so Neil could do a job there. Unfortunately, I developed a migraine so I wasn't very well or happy for a couple of hours. However, after a good chunder (TMI?) I started to come right.
    Arrived in a light patter of rain and parked on a bed of fallen autumn leaves. The fog was just starting to roll into the lake.
    Diesel has one paw out of action due to having stitches in his paw pad, so he's not overly happy not being able to go for a swim or any long walks or rides.
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  • Day 3-Marokopa to Waingaro

    Jul 21–22, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌧 13 °C

    We started our day by going further south to see Waikawau Beach and Tunnel (approx 30kms up from Awakino). A tunnel hewn into solid rock to access the beach.
    We decided to then head for Kawhia (through torential rain) only to find one camping ground closed for winter, one was open but no one was in the office and we couldn't get them on the phone. The other looked old and rundown. No FC anywhere. We were very disappointed (sorry Kawhia but we won't be back).
    We traveled through to Waingaro, as we will go back to Raglan for a couple of nights tomorrow and catch up with family there.
    The campground is tired and quite pricey ($31 each for one night). The amenities are basic but clean, and we do get to use the hot springs whenever we want to. TBH, we were just happy to find somewhere to wait out the torrential 🌧 🌧 .
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  • Waingaro to Raglan

    Jul 22–24, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    Haven't been to Raglan for probably around 25 years, so I'm not sure what to expect. What a cute wee town! We parked at the Raglan Club (carpark) as it's the only place that allows dogs. The rain has finally stopped. We got some washing done, and things are starting to dry out!
    We managed to get Diesel's paw rebandaged at the local vets. It's a real mission to keep it dry and on!
    Had a nice stroll around the town, and then time for snacks and drinks in the sun.
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  • Raglan

    July 23, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 10 °C

    Last night, the town fire siren sounded four times—I only caught the last three! 😅 Today started leisurely with breakfast at a dog-friendly café. Diesel loved his puppaccino! We took a walk but got caught in a downpour. After a nap while Neil read, his sister Linda and hubby Roger arrived. We're excited for our coastal trip with them! We celebrated Neil's birthday with a fantastic dinner at Orca—amazing food, impeccable service, and wonderful company! Happy birthday to my ❤️Read more

  • Raglan to Port Waikato

    Jul 24–25, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌬 14 °C

    Nestled where the majestic Waikato River meets the vast expanse of the Tasman Sea lies a hidden gem—a quaint campground that captures the essence of coastal New Zealand living. Our journey here was marked not just by the stunning scenery but also by the warmth of the local community.Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly by the campground owners, whose hospitality made us feel instantly at home. The campground itself exuded a charming, rustic appeal, with signs that some had chosen to make this peaceful haven a permanent residence.Our night here was serene, save for the occasional symphony of the river's gentle whispers and my husband's not-so-subtle snoring. Yet, with the dawn came clarity—a perfect day awaited us, urging us to explore.Descending towards the shore, we were greeted by the sight of endless sand dunes stretching out before us, reminiscent of untouched landscapes waiting to be discovered. The views were nothing short of breathtaking, each wave crashing against the shore a reminder of nature's raw beauty.As we wandered along the beach, the tranquility of the surroundings enveloped us, offering a rare moment of stillness in our otherwise bustling lives. The air was crisp with salty freshness, and the horizon seemed to stretch on endlessly, inviting us to contemplate the vastness of the sea and sky.This little community by the river mouth has etched itself into our memories, not just for its natural splendor but for the genuine warmth of its people. It's a place where time slows down, allowing one to appreciate life's simple pleasures—a quiet beach stroll, the rustle of wind through the dunes, and the comfort of welcoming neighbors.If you're seeking a retreat off the beaten path, where the river meets the sea and everyday worries melt away, look no further than the Waikato River Mouth. Here, amidst the dunes and the azure waters, you'll find a sanctuary that beckons you to unwind and reconnect with nature's boundless beauty.
    (Info by me, flowery prose by chatgpt)
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  • Hamilton's Gap Waiuku

    Jul 25–26, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 15 °C

    It is a lovely freedom camping spot with a big flat area, room for many campers. The beach is easy access, but not really a swimming beach! There were around 4 permanents living here, all with dogs that were mostly contained. 2 longdrop toilets (not smelly at all) and rubbish bins!Read more

  • Waiau Pa

    Jul 26–27, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    This freedom camping site is operated by the Waiau boat and fishing club. We were unable to park on the big green area as it is very boggy, but we were still able to get a great spot just inside the gate.
    Beautiful views of the Waiuku river. We are so grateful for a sunny fine day!
    Huntly House is nearby. A beautifully restored 1911 building that is now used for events, functions, and accommodation.
    https://m.facebook.com/huntlyhousenz/
    https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5K0qjARIcv/?igs…
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  • Waiau to Orewa

    Jul 27–28, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    We stayed at Linda and Roger's for the night and had a real shower, and a fabulous dinner of home made pizza.
    Went for our first bike ride into Orewa along the estuary, had a coffee on the beach, then back to continue on the next part of our journey. Unfortunately our electric step stopped working, so had to be removed to continue travelling.Read more

  • Matakana

    Jul 28–30, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 16 °C

    A lovely POP site (Willow Park) overlooking the Matakana/Omaha/Leigh countryside. Neil spent some time fixing the step (he's very clever!). Rebandaged Diesel's paw so we could go for another bike ride.
    We found the trail that meandered down the hill and across farmland. We stopped in at Morris & James Pottery, and I drooled over all the gorgeous pieces. We will go back on our way out and buy some!
    Today (Monday), we biked to Omaha beach down a steep graveled trail flanked by eucalyptus trees; their pungent scent was quite invigorating. The trip was an 18kms round trip. Omaha is a lovely wee place with VERY nice houses at the beach end. A coffee and a snack at a cafe gave us enough energy to ride back before the rain and wind caught up with us. Diesel was an absolute trooper.
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  • Matakana to Ngaruawahia

    Jul 30–31, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 12 °C

    After a lovely brunch with Michael Senior at Matakana Market Kitchen (I haven't had welsh rarebit for years), we started our journey back through Auckland. Stopped at Warkworth, did laundry, and scoured the 2nd hand shops. A detour into Huntly and then on to Ngaruawahia. While we were deciding where to stay, the weather provided a brief but heavy rain storm with some lightning thrown in for good measure. The rainbows after we're beautiful!
    We wandered up to 'town' and had a lovely curry at the local Indian takeaway.
    Bach at the camper we lost all our power despite having some sun today and all the driving. Weird. We've noticed a few things that need attention, so NoW's will be going to RV hospital in the next few weeks.
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