Kia Ora,
While the water is still warm enough for some locals to be swimming, and the hills evergreen, the season is changing as the long summer wanes, the days decrease and the golden light has set in.
Autumn is nature's planting time, perfect for a huge community dune restoration project coming up in Pauanui. You may have noticed how much our beaches can change by erosion from natural wave and wind action, and the new plants will help trap sand so the dunes can self-repair.
And if you feel in need of some autumn self-repair, we have some ideas.
Ngā Mihi Nui
Put on the list:
Take the road less travelled
The hulk of this WWII minesweeper can be seen resting on the foreshore of the Hauraki Gulf, just north of Kaiaua. One of the many things to discover as you take the alternate route in to The Coromandel via the Pacific Coast Highway. Image: @peteplymouth
Take to the skies
Take flight from the city for a beachfront lunch in The Coromandel with Air Auckland and Stoked Restaurant. Surprise a special person by whisking them away on a luxurious adventure, or buy them a gift voucher for a memorable day out. #goodforyoursoul
Ever thought about a local guide?
We are used to making our own way along the beach, through the bush, but a local guide, especially one who is an environmentalist and DOC ranger, can add a lot to the experience. And take you places that Siri doesn't know about.
Let someone else do the cooking
For fabulous flavours when you are short on inspiration and energy. "Meals for You" will make your life a little easier with family friendly options and dinner-party execution. Great salads and picnic fixings and stockists of some of New Zealand's specialty cheeses. Another great reason to put Paeroa on the itinerary.
Unique places to stay:
Best of both
A private apartment with bed and breakfast hospitality in the heart of Waihi Beach. Relax in the quiet residential haven with sea views for a cosy retreat, and wake up to a delicious breakfast served on your private patio.
$99 Midweek special
If you can get away during the week you could save up to 36% on accommodation at Hot Water Beach Top 10. With your own natural spa at the end of the driveway, you may venture no further than the beach with the same name.
Giving back to nature:
Pauanui Plantathon
10,000 native dune plants are to be planted along this majestic sweep of beach which is a massive undertaking and exciting step forward. Grab a spade, gloves and your water bottle and dig into the largest coastal restoration planting The Coromandel has seen, Friday 13 and Saturday 14 May. Image: @wojciechk87
Stop spread of invasive seaweed
Two exotic species have been found in the western bays of Ahuahu Great Mercury Island. These can spread rapidly and affect wildlife. Boaties will play a vital role in protecting our waters by respecting the Controlled Area Notice and rāhui at Aotea Great Barrier and Ahuahu Great Mercury Islands.
Our tiaki promise is to help ensure our environment is enhanced by all those who come to enjoy it. To act as guardians, protecting and preserving our beautiful home.
Tiaki means to care for people and place, whether we live here all of the time, some of the time, or we visit. That means conserving our water, leaving only footprints on our beaches and birdsong in our forests.
That's good for your soul.