To Do

Nikki, number one daughter, has inspired me to write this blog. I have the message to write more about what to do? This is, having been given the scenario a guest has arrived to stay, in summer.

Katikati is conveniently positioned, an easy two hours’ drive from Auckland, one and a half hour’s drive from the rural farming city, Hamilton and one hour’s easy drive from the tourist city, Rotorua, with all of its thermal attractions.

Within half an hour’s drive there are two picturesque beach locations; Waihi Beach and the more discovered, Mount Maunganui Beach. The cafe culture is alive and thriving. Many eateries, (including a delightful newly opened cafe; ‘Tay Street’), are fully subscribed to any day of the week. Food is fresh, seafood is plentiful, vegetables are easily sourced and the region’s official provincial title, ‘The Bay of Plenty’, wears its name with pride.

We are very lucky. Fine, easily drained soils, bountiful rainfall and long hours of sunshine make life very pleasant in these climes. The landscape is easy on the eye; rolling hills, pretty waterways, islands and pockets of native bush and plenty of parks. Specifically, a day at ‘The Mount’ could include; a 45 minute gentle stroll around the base, a more strenuous climb to its top or swim in the recently renovated, salt water hot pools. Perhaps take a longer stroll along the beach, exploring the blowhole or partake in a little shell collecting. Surfing and sea kayaking are favourites. So is the kite surfing. Take a fishing trawler trip for the day and expect to see dolphins and flying fish. On land, crafty little shops sport more ‘kiwiana’ than a decade ago. In the last five years, international cruise ships flock into the harbour, for the day. Visitors often opt for the side trip, tour bus option of visiting Kiwifruit 360; a tour of a kiwifruit orchard and shop. Plenty to see - plenty to do.