Day Trips Archives - Waipu and Bream Bay Coastal Paradise in Northland New Zealand

Makakohe Limestone Island

By Rosemary Neave | February 16, 2016 |

I have often looked out on Matakohe Limestone Island in Whangarei Harbour and thought I would love to go there. I had heard of the replanting work which began in 1990 when it was made a scenic reserve and the re-introduction of kiwi, lizards and other birds which now thrive in this predator free world. Last…

Whangarei Heads

By Rosemary Neave | July 17, 2013 |

The fabulous headland Bream Bay looks out on is Whangarei Heads. From Waipu to Ocean Beach is about 1.5 hr drive. It is one of the most amazing picturesque drives in NZ – winding around the Whangarei Harbour and out to the beach. Rosemary writes about the area A great place to explore – my favourites…

The Piroa Falls – a local secret

By Rosemary Neave | December 1, 2010 |

Piroa Falls is one of Bream Bay’s more hidden secrets – a gem of a place, that is not quite so ‘hidden’ since the NZ Herald pointed out that it is one of the great non-beachy places to enjoy in the summer. An easy 10 minute bush walk takes you to the falls – it…

Waipu – Go west for the day

By Rosemary Neave | November 14, 2010 |

It’s a beautiful spring day in Waipu. The beach is always seductive, but we decided on a day road trip and see what else was on offer. We headed back over the Brynderwyns and turned west – towards the Kauri Coast, but not quite – we are off to explore Sunshine Organics at Maungaturoto, and…

The Magic of Matakana, half way between Auckland and Waipu

By Rosemary Neave | May 31, 2010 |

The Matakana Market For years I have heard of the Matakana Market, but have never quite made it. This weekend was it – we headed off from Waipu at 9.30 and when we arrived an hour later the market was still pumping. (hours 8-1pm) It was everything we had hoped – lots of great local…

What next after a prize winning Garden Centre

By Rosemary Neave | January 18, 2010

Story by Hannah Spyksma After selling Mangawhai’s award winning Naja Garden Centre barely 18 months ago, local business veterans, Natalie and Jac Spyksma have just announced the opening of their latest venture. The couple have opened a business in Langs Beach, providing two or three day fully catered walking adventures for small groups.