Cape Reinga, also known as Te Rerenge Wairua, is the most northern destination you can travel to in New Zealand, hanging off the edge of Aupouri Peninsula it's a brilliant day trip to do for any sort of explorer/explorers. If you're into trekking, tramping, wildlife, star gazing, sand surfing, streams, historic land and sea then Cape Reinga is one to put in the travel diary.
Cape Reinga itself is breathtaking, but the journey is equally as enjoyable. There are only two routes that you can take, either the far north road (motorway 1) which voyages through the sightseeing heart of the north and also past the picturesque Karikari Peninsular or the second route is to drive up the rather marvellous 90 mile beach. Although in reality it is only roughly 60 miles, this doesn't take away the sheer delight in driving along an expansive stretch of sandy beach. However, as sand and salt can cause a lot of damage to cars, the majority of vehicles driving on 90 mile beach are buses or 4x4's. Fear not however, as there are a surplus of coach trips to allow you to enjoy it.
When you arrive in the Cape Reinga car park you'll see a sign for a pathway leading to the lighthouse. It only takes 15 minutes or so to get to the end, the views on the way down are phenomenal, including a free history lesson on the Maori culture so you can learn all about Cape Reinga. Stop, read the carvings on the rocks and take in all of the breathtaking scenery!
15 minutes South of Cape Reinga, a sign which reads ' Giant sand dunes; Te Paki Stream ' is not to be ignored. When they say giant sand dunes, they really do mean it. Driving towards the dunes, hints of golden sand higher than the mountains glisten in the distance, mimicking a seen from The Mummy Returns or Arabian Nights. But the best part about the sand dunes? You get to surf down them.
If you are planning on driving or you have arranged a coach trip through a company make sure you stock up on food and drinks because theres no MacDonald's next to the lighthouse.
Where to stay: If you are travelling by car and wanting to rest overnight near Cape Reinga the only thing in site is a beautiful campsite ( Department of Conservation DOC ) called Tapotupotu Bay, five minute drive south from Cape Reinga. If hitching up a tent isn't your style and wanting something a little more spacious, Pukenui Lodge Motel & backpackers is located 70km south of Cape Reinga having great facilities, views and a variation of accommodation for budget backpackers to Family "fun" adventures.
If you're travelling by foot Dolphin Cruises are a great company to book with for any kind of trip, in and around The Bay of Islands.
What to do: Cape Reinga, 90 mile beach, Sand Surfing.
Verdict;
S - Brilliant day out (or two.) Worth every dollar. Make sure you stock up on food, water and petrol.
T - Well worth doing! The highlight for me was seeing the two oceans meet - brilliant.
15 minutes South of Cape Reinga, a sign which reads ' Giant sand dunes; Te Paki Stream ' is not to be ignored. When they say giant sand dunes, they really do mean it. Driving towards the dunes, hints of golden sand higher than the mountains glisten in the distance, mimicking a seen from The Mummy Returns or Arabian Nights. But the best part about the sand dunes? You get to surf down them.
If you are planning on driving or you have arranged a coach trip through a company make sure you stock up on food and drinks because theres no MacDonald's next to the lighthouse.
Where to stay: If you are travelling by car and wanting to rest overnight near Cape Reinga the only thing in site is a beautiful campsite ( Department of Conservation DOC ) called Tapotupotu Bay, five minute drive south from Cape Reinga. If hitching up a tent isn't your style and wanting something a little more spacious, Pukenui Lodge Motel & backpackers is located 70km south of Cape Reinga having great facilities, views and a variation of accommodation for budget backpackers to Family "fun" adventures.
If you're travelling by foot Dolphin Cruises are a great company to book with for any kind of trip, in and around The Bay of Islands.
What to do: Cape Reinga, 90 mile beach, Sand Surfing.
Verdict;
S - Brilliant day out (or two.) Worth every dollar. Make sure you stock up on food, water and petrol.
T - Well worth doing! The highlight for me was seeing the two oceans meet - brilliant.
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