Maungaturoto
Maungaturoto was first settled by pioneers from the Albertland Settlement Scheme back in 1863 and the name means Valley Between Two Hills . It is a pretty town 8km from the Brynderwyn Junction on State Highway 12. The rural view from here is magnificent, the township visible in the distance as one passes through verdant green farmlands on which graze herds of dairy cows. The region's largest Dairy Company is set off to the right on the outskirts of the town. This is rural New Zealand at its most attractive and tranquil. |
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Maungaturoto
A REAL New Zealand Town
Population - approx 850
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| Paparoa
Paparoa is a quaint little settlement and was a major shipping and boatbuilding centre on the Kaipara Harbour in the days when sailing boats plied the Kaipara Harbour. Nowadays everything is more relaxed. You can find accommodation in The Old Post Office Guest House which is also stocked with antiques and a craft-workshop. Picnic on the Village Green or visit the Bushman's Memorial Reserve . Be sure to cross the footbridge and take the 20 minute bushwalk after which a relaxed light meal may be enjoyed at the new Cruise Cafe . The Blechynden Estate has self contained cottage accommodation.
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Village in the Valley
Population - approx 270
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Pahi
Pahi is almost encircled by tidal seawater, and is the Kauri Coast's most popular departure for leisure fishing and the local clubs annual regattas. You may buy fresh fish straight from the boat or try your luck off the wharf fishing for snapper or kahawai, net flouder or mullet, or pick NZ Green Lipped Mussels and Pacific Oysters at low tide. Pahi is also the home of the Kaipara Harbour Houseboats . The renowned Moreton Bay Fig (planted about 1850), flourishes in the public reserve adjacent to the camping ground and among New Zealands 10 most notable trees. |
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Pahi is famous for the Moreton Bay Fig
Population - approx 100
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Matakohe
Matakohe has an interesting history from the early pioneering days, with the Coates Memorial Church being a major legacy from that era. Today Matakohe is more famous for The Kauri Museum . Be sure to budget at least two or three hours to spend in this area when you plan your holiday around the Kauri Coast . There are two cafes - The Gumdiggers Cafe opposite the Museum, alternatively, 30 to 40 metres past the Museum on the same side of the road is Matakohe House which also offers first class accommodation. Camping facilities are available at the end of Church Road at Matakohe Top 10 Holiday Park. |
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Visit The Kauri Museum
Population - approx 120
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Ruawai
Ruawai was named in recognition of the location beside Two Waters , where the muddy waters of the Northern Wairoa River flow into the Kaipara Harbour. The Ruawai Flats give a panoramic view of the residual volcanic cone of Tokatoka , and is an under-sea-level pasture-land protected by a system of drains, canals, flood-gates and stop-banks. A monument to the foresight of the original pioneers , these safeguards enable the farmers to produce high quality milk , crops of kumara and export squash . |
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Ruawai is the place beside two waters
Population - approx 400
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Dargaville
Dargaville is the gateway to the Kauri Forest , two and a half hours drive north west of Auckland, and is a unique town of approximately 4,500 people, nestled amongst the hills radiating northwards from the Northern Wairoa River . In the past two decades Dargaville has grown as a tourist destination , especially as a central base from which to visit the virtually untouched and unspoiled recreational paradise - the Kauri Coast , the Great Outdoors to which more and more discerning visitors are returning each year. A must stop is the Dargaville Maritime Museum and an adventure with one of the harbour curises. There are many places to stay including Motel Hobson's Choice, Northern Wairoa Hotel and Baylys Beach Motor Camp. |
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Dargaville the gateway to the Kauri Coast
Population - approx 4500
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Kai Iwi Lakes
The Kai Iwi Lakes are situated 35km northwest of Dargaville and contain three freshwater lakes on 538 ha of recreation reserve. Recreational activities include boating, diving, fishing, sailboarding, swimming, yachting and water skiing. The lakes support a variety of plant and animal life and offer excellent trout fishing , with Trout weighing up to 4 kilograms. Camping is permitted at Pine Beach and Promenade Point. |
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Taharoa Domain where
Kai Iwi Lakes paradise is found.
Area - 538 ha
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Mangawhai
Mangawhai is on the east coast off State Highway One and is now a popular weekend retreat for Aucklanders. This east coast settlement with its breathtaking beach and unique tidal estuary is waiting to welcome you. There's surfing, water sports and a safe environment for families, fantastic walks , and a great range of accommodation. Relax with a cool drink at the Historical Mangawhai Tavern. |
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Magical Mangawhai moments
make holidays happen.
Population - approx 1000
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Kaiwaka
Kaiwaka is a small township on State Highway One, famous for the Kaiwaka Lights which light the buildings at night. Kaiwaka has a great choice of cafes and speciality shops. A visit to the information centre is a must, and a great cup of coffee can be found at the Kauri Cafe next door. On Saturdays the Kaiwaka Green Market takes place, here you will find organic foods, clothing, herbal remedies, cosmetics and gift items. Another stop is the Apple Basket Patchwork and Garden Centre. |
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Kaiwaka is the little town of lights.
Population - approx 450
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