Author Archives: Bella Vista

Thanks to the natural beauty that surrounds the town of Rotorua, free activities here are not hard to find. We’ve got waterfalls, forests, walking tracks, hot springs and traditional Maori villages all ready and waiting for you to explore; you could easily spend days or even weeks experiencing the many free things to do in Rotorua. But in case you don’t have that long, we’ve listed the top four Rotorua free things to do right here, so you can cut to the chase and make the most of your precious time!

Ohinemutu Maori Village

A visit to Ohinemutu Maori Village is one of the best free things to do in Rotorua if you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience. The picturesque village on the shores of Lake Rotorua is inhabited by the Ngati Whakaue tribe, and visitors are welcome to come and take a look around free of charge. The main buildings on site are a Marae adorned with intricate Maori carvings and the striking St Faith’s Church. As you wander around, you’ll see the many ways residents use the abundant natural geothermal activity for cooking, heating and bathing. Ohinemutu is less than 10 minutes' walk from our Rotorua Motel, so a great option if you don’t want to stray too far from home base.

Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest

Whakarewarewa Forest, also known as ‘The Redwoods,’ is just a stone’s throw from Rotorua City Centre. It’s 5600 hectares of sky-high Californian Coast Redwoods, thick native bush, walking and mountain biking tracks and trickling streams. In Rotorua, free things to do don’t come much better than this—especially if there are kids involved. You can spend an entire day here just exploring, riding, walking and picnicking—and there are special orienteering and discovery activities for kids too. Just pick up some worksheets from the visitors centre to get started!

Take a dip in a natural hot spring

You’ve probably heard that there are hot springs galore in and around Rotorua, but where can you actually go to swim in one of these? If you’re not interested in pricey day spas and you’re chasing free things to do in Rotorua instead, you must check out the amazing swimming hole at nearby Wai-O-Tapu. Just a 25-minute drive from Rotorua, the swimming hole sits where two streams of different temperatures meet, making it perfect for groups of people who have vastly different ideas of what makes a comfortable swimming temperature!  To get here, bypass the first entrance that leads to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and take the second entrance instead. You’ll see the swimming hole below a little wooden bridge.

Visit Okere Falls

In Rotorua, free activities are abundant for those who embrace the outdoors. And Okere Falls is a must-visit for waterfall lovers and those who appreciate a peaceful stroll out in nature. Just 20 kilometres from Rotorua, Okere Falls is best known for being a popular spot for rafting, kayaking and other such hair-raising activities. This means that you’ve got a pretty good chance of seeing various watercraft come racing over the falls and splashing into the water below—offering hours of free entertainment for spectators and passers-by. The DOC track takes walkers from the picnic area past the falls and to the Trout Pool at the end. This is a popular fishing spot with many anglers for catching trout!

The natural landcapes that surround the Taupo township are some of New Zealand’s most magnificent. And there’s no better way to experience the sights, sounds and smells of nature than by strapping on your hiking boots or walking shoes and exploring the region by foot. There are walks in Taupo for all ages and levels of mobility, from leisurely lakeside strolls to multi-day hikes over rugged and unforgiving landscapes. If you’re searching for the best things to do in Taupo in the great outdoors, this list of Taupo’s best walks and hikes will get you off to a cracking start.

Tongariro National Park

If you’re serious about hiking, you’ll have undoubtedly heard of the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing—one of the best day hikes in New Zealand. But Tongariro National Park is home to dozens of other great walking tracks too, from shorter hikes (less than three hours) to multi-day tramps that circle the mountains. Tongariro National Park is only about an hour’s drive from Taupo so it’s well worth the trip, even if you’re opting for a shorter track.

Heli Hiking

Some of our most breathtaking untouched landscapes are virtually inaccessible by road or by foot, but thankfully we have helicopters to drop us safely into these incredible destinations. Helisika Helicopters offers amazing heli-hiking adventures in the Taupo region, taking keen walkers to the remote parts of the Kaimanawa and Kaiweka ranges. You’ll be able to explore dense native bush and have the chance to see plants and wildlife you wouldn’t see on your everyday walks in Taupo.

Spa Thermal Park to Huka Falls

This is one of the many walks in Taupo perfect for those wanting to get some exercise without pushing too hard. The track follows the Waikato River, extending from Spa Thermal Park up to the powerful Huka Falls. You’ll pass over a natural hot stream (you can have a quck dip if you like) and up and down gentle slopes bordered by lush green foliage. After a few kilometres you’ll cross the Waikato River and from there you can exit via the car park, turn around and head back or walk a bit further up for the perfect vantage point to view the Huka Falls.

Mount Tauhara

Mount Tauhara is one of the most popular mountains to climb in and around Taupo—and for good reason too... The views from the top are simply phenomenal! Rated an intermediate climb, you’ll need to be relatively fit to make it all the way to the top of Mount Tauhara and back without too much trouble. The summit is 1088 metres high and the entire hike takes approximately three hours once you factor in a few short breaks and a nice long break at the summit. Trust us, you’ll want to sit up there for as long as possible to enjoy the jaw-dropping views of sparkling Lake Taupo resting below.

Great Lake Pathway

The Great Lake Pathway hugs the edge of Lake Taupo and extends from Taupo Boat Harbour to the north of the main town to Five Mile Bay. The ten kilometre walkway is ideal for families and dogs—children can ride their bikes and scooters and take plenty of stops to play in the sand and at the lake’s edge. You can begin wherever you like and walk for as long you want – there are car parks, picnic tables and and other facilities dotted along the way. The Great Lake Pathway is one of the best Taupo activities for people of all ages, and just a ten minute walk from Bella Vista.

For more ideas on local walks and other Taupo activities, chat to us reception! We’re always happy to help. For affordable Taupo accommodation enjoy your stay at Bella Vista

If you search for photographs of Whangarei or waterfalls in New Zealand, Whangarei Falls is guaranteed to make an appearance! The picturesque Whangarei waterfall is a drawcard all year round—for families, couples and those travelling solo—and this goes for locals as well as tourists. So if you’re planning your first visit there and you’re not quite sure what to expect, read on to find out everything you need to know.

Location of Whangarei Falls

Otuihau/Whangarei Falls can be found just a ten-minute drive from town and from our Whangarei motel. Located at 6 Ngunguru Road, Tikipunga; the fastest route from Bella Vista Whangarei is to travel north up State Highway One then turn right onto Puna Rere Drive, which eventually becomes Twin Coast Discovery Highway. After about four or five minutes drive you’ll turn right onto Boundary Road and then left into the Whangarei Falls main car park.

The History of Whangarei Falls

Whangarei Falls was traditionally a productive eeling spot for local Maori and was known as an area for healing. But it became private property in the late 1920s after Mr Archibald Clapham brought the property—apparently as a preventative measure to stop the area becoming a commercial watermill. The scenic Whangarei waterfall then became public domain in 1946.

Natural Features of Whangarei Falls

It’s not the tallest Whangarei waterfall, but it comes pretty close at 26 metres high.The traditional ‘curtain’ waterfall spills from the Hatea River, which eventually empties into the Whangarei Harbour. Whangarei Falls is surrounded by lush New Zealand native bush and attracts a variety of birdlife including the Kukupa/Native Wood Pigeon,Tui and Riroriro/Grey Warbler.

Accessibility

From the car park at the entrance to the Whangarei Falls, you’ll only need to walk a few minutes before reaching the first viewing platform at the top of the waterfall. This makes it ideal if you’re looking for scenic walking tracks in Whangarei that are quick and easy to navigate. The base of the waterfall is just a ten-minute walk and you can complete the loop that stretches around the falls within 20-30 minutes. There is a flight of steps on the walk, so while the loop isn’t difficult, unfortunately it’s not suitable for prams or wheelchairs.

Swimming

Plenty of people swim at Whangarei Falls, but it’s not always a great idea! It can be contaminated by livestock and wildfowl from time to time, so keep an eye out for swimming warnings, questionable smells, and discoloured water.

Facilities

There are picnic tables on toilets on site, so why not bring your lunch and make a few hours of it?! There’s nothing like enjoying refreshments in good company alongside this majestic Whangarei waterfall.

Nearby attractions

From Whangarei Falls, you’ve got easy access to AH Reed Kauri Park, home to some of the best walking tracks in Whangarei. The easy walk between the Park and the waterfall follows the Hatea River. There are some short steep climbs, but the track is suitable for all ages and it’s a great place to get some exercise.

Are you staying up north for a while and busy searching for all the best Whangarei things to do? There are dozens of great activities up here in New Zealand’s northernmost city – so it was tough to pick our top five! We picked these ones based on all the great feedback we get from happy tourists here at our Whangarei motel.

Visit Kiwi North

Open daily from 10am until 4pm, Kiwi North is one of the best things to do in Whangarei whether you’re travelling solo or as a family. At the Kiwi House you can see the endangered Kiwi and Tuatara go about their business; the enclosure is light and climate controlled so that during the day it replicates night time in the wild. If you turn up at the right time you can also see Kiwi feeding take place – this happens daily at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. And that’s not all—the Kiwi North 25-hectare property also accommodates the Whangarei Museum and Heritage Park. Here you can learn about the fascinating history of the local area and discover some of Whangarei’s oldest buildings including the 1886 “Glorat” Clarke Homestead. Its only 9 minutes from your Whangarei accommodation.

Explore the Abbey Caves

This set of three limestone caves is just a ten-minute drive from our Whangarei motel and is a great option for those looking for something active and adventurous to try out. You’ll see stalactites, glow worms and plenty of native flora and fauna—some explorers even report seeing eels swimming around their feet in the still, clear cave waters. Come prepared for this one—the caves get wet and dark and there’s a lot of climbing involved—so a headlamp, torch and suitable footwear are absolute musts! If you’re looking for walks in Whangarei with a touch of excitement, this one’s for you.

Whangarei Quarry Gardens

Who doesn’t love a leaisurely walk around nice garden? This gorgeous subtropical oasis is the result of a mammoth community effort to restore an old stone quarry, and the result is truly spectacular! The Whangarei Quarry Gardens is one of those things to do in Whangarei that’s great for all ages. Stroll around  camellias, cacti and bromeliads, or take a guided tour on one of the electric golf carts. It’s easy to spend hours here; the Quarry Gardens also has its own on-site café serving breakfast, lunch, coffee and treats.

Whangarei Falls

Whangarei Falls is one of the most popular scenic walks in Whangarei and only 10 minutes from your Whangarei motel accommodation. Situated in Whangarei Scenic Reserve, the impressive 26-metre waterfalls are also easily one of the most photographed attractions in the region—and once you get here you’ll understand why! The 20-minute loop around the falls is a relatively easy walk, but there are stairs to navigate on parts of the track. Make your way to the two viewing platforms for the very best vantage points to capture the falls in all their glory. Learn more by reading our blog about the Falls.

Fishing and diving near Whangarei

In Whangarei, things to do generally centre on the outdoors thanks to our wonderful location. And we believe that but no trip here is complete without getting out on the water! Whether you’re an avid diver, a novice fisherman or just keen to take a cruise, there’s a selection of local tour companies ready to whisk you out to all the best spots. Poor Knights Island Marine Reserve has great visibility and an abundance of marine life—so it’s perfect for diving and snorkelling. Or let the locals take you to all the best fishing spots and try your hand at hooking a snapper, kingfish, kahawai or trevally. No matter your preference, a day on the water is an absolute must! It's a great day out and only 30 minutes drive from your Whangarei accommodation. 

If you’re looking for a New Zealand holiday destination where you’ll never be short of things to do, Taupo is a clear winner! The township is nestled on the north-eastern side of Lake Taupo, making it a popular holiday spot for water-sports enthusiasts, cyclists, hikers, adrenaline junkies and explorers. Our list of popular Taupo activities has something for everyone… Read on to plan your next getaway!

Walking and cycling

One of the most enticing Taupo attractions is the incredible ability to explore the town’s beautiful natural surrounds by bike or by foot. When it comes to cycle trails, you’re absolutely spoilt for choice. Ride around beaches and wetlands, along the Waikato river, through native forest or right up to the famous Huka falls. And if you prefer walking or hiking, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is an absolute must! Been there, done that? Try hiking to the summit of Mt Tauhara, the Rangatira Point Track or explore the gorgeous sights and smells of the Waipahihi Bontanical Reserve.

Geothermal wonders

A trip to Taupo would be wasted without exploring the magnificent hot springs and geysers that are found in this special part of the world. We mean it when we say that these amazing Taupo attractions are not to be missed! If you’re looking for family fun, try a visit to Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs. The best thing is our Taupo accommodation is only 6 minutes drive from here. There’s a great water park with slides for the kids and a day spa for the adults who are keen to just relax. If you want to explore in more natural surrounds, try Orakei Korako Geothermal Park, Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk or the Tokaanu Themal Walk. You’ll see steamy pools, hot bubbling mud, incredible geysers and unique flora and fauna.

Adventure and adrenaline

Taupo may not be the official ‘adventure capital of the world’—but we’re calling it a close second! Looking for things to do in Taupo that’ll get your heart racing? We’ve got bungy jumping and skydiving for those keen to go all out – and jetboating if heights just aren’t your thing. You can speed up to the base of the beautiful Huka Falls or try white-water jet boating through the Aratiatia or Fuljames rapids.

Water sports galore

If you’re visiting while the weather is warm, make sure you try to get out on the water! We suggest  a kayak adventure around glistening Lake Taupo to see the Mine Bay Maori Carvings. Or for something more fast-paced, try white-water rafting on the mighty Waikato River—it’s one of the best Taupo activities for adventure-lovers! And if you can hire a boat and some extra gear, the options are endless… Waterskiing, wakeboarding, fishing or just simply putting your feet up on deck and basking in the serenity.

Top Taupo attractions

To round out our list, we recommend one of our most popular ‘tried and trusted’ Taupo activities that many of our regular visitors make time for on each and every visit... The Huka Falls. These majestic looking waterfalls are always worth a look—you can take a leisurely stroll along the many tracks and even watch the Huka Falls jet boat race up to the rapids.

For more ideas on the best things to do in Taupo, feel free to have a chat to us at reception! We’re full of local knowledge and can offer tips and tricks to make sure you make some amazing memories in our lovely lakeside town.

As part of the Taupo Volcanic Zone that stretches from Central North Island to Bay of Plenty, there are many geothermal attractions close to Taupo Bella Vista. Many of these attractions are within 1 hour’s drive from your Taupo Motel accommodation.

Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park

Orakei Korako is Bella Vista's top pick and arguably the best geothermal attraction around Taupo Region.  Considered as “off the beaten track” it is only 25 minutes’ drive from Taupo. To access the park, you need to drive for 30 minutes from the motel along state highway 1.  Once parked you can hop on an on-demand boat (included in the admission fee) which crosses the mighty Waikato River.

A boardwalk from the jetty leads you to the centre of the park where many geothermal features such as geysers, hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and massive silica terraces can be found. Do not miss the Ruatapu Cave. It takes average 1 hour to complete the self-guided walk.

Crater Of The Moon

Less than 10 minutes’ drive out of Taupo town centre is a lesser known geothermal area.  This area resembles lunar landscapes, features bubbling craters, steam vents and colourful soils. The walkway is mostly level and accessible to both wheelchair & pram (free for loan).   The entrance fee is good value at $8 for an adult. It takes a leisurely 45 minutes to complete a self-guided loop.
 

Tokaanu Thermal Walk

Located at the southern end of Lake Taupo in the village of Tokaanu near Turangi, is this family-friendly walkway. You can complete the loop walk in around 15 minutes. All the features of the walk includiong steaming pools and spluttering mud pots are set amongst attractive native bush. Access is free, but do visit the thermal pools right next door which draws its mineral rich water from the hot streams. The people of local M?ori tribe have lived around the thermal area since the 16th century. 

Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Located off SH5 between Taupo and Rotorua lies one of the youngest geothermal area in the world, Waimangu Valley.

Not only does the park have some spectacular volcanic features such as craters, geysers, and hot springs, there is also the stories of the Mt Tarawera eruption. The volcanoes explosion not only resulted in this dramatic landscape, but also changed the lives of many.

You begin this unique experience by descending into the valley from top of a hill where you can see a range of geothermal activity and features. The highlight is the brilliant blue Inferno Crater. Continue your walk to Lake Rotomahana, or hop on the free shuttle back to where you started. If you choose the former, you have the option to join the lake cruise and learn more about the nature and human history of the area.

Depending on your schedule, allow 1 – 3 hours to explore and experience this amazing piece of the world.

Bella Vista Taupo is situated just a short walk from both Lake Taupo waterfront and the town.  Handy for shops and attractions it is a perfect getaway spot.  

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Whangarei is becoming an incredibly popular destination for Aucklander's looking to take a couple of nights away. You can enjoy a range of activities and attractions during your stay and that includes, of course, a trip to one or two of the local beaches.

A relatively easy 150km drive from Auckland, Whangarei is a vibrant town with plenty to see and do, great restaurants and the popular town basin is a destination in its own right. The city is a great place to base yourself and of course, a perfect Whangarei accommodation option is 4 star rated Bella Vista.

Here is our rundown on the best beaches to visit in and around Whangarei.

Ruakaka Beach

Ruakaka Beach is just a 30 min car ride south of Whangarei.  The beach at Ruakaka is a great swimming beach with surf life guards on duty during the summer months and it is popular with locals, visitors from Whangarei and tourists alike.

Ruakaka is an open easterly facing ocean beach that does have rips and with a moderate gradient and usually one sandbar, it is sheltered from Northerly swells by Bream Head. Lots of people also surf fish along this beach as well. 

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is 35km from Whangarei and it will take you about 40 min to drive there.  One of Whangarei’s premier surf beach. The beach is patrolled by life guards in the summer months.

There are oads of sand dunes to run up and down, rock pools to explore and maybe gather some sea food (Kai Moana).

With its beautiful white sand and views of Bream Head what more could you ask for from a beach. Park in the car park above which has toilets and walk down to the beach for a swim and picnic if you desire. Lots to explore along the coast.

Matapouri

A 35 min drive east of Whangarei and 36.5 kms along the Tutukaka coast, you will find this magnificent beach, our favorite beach.

Matapouri Bay has spectacular white sand and an estuary that you can swim in, this is one of the safest beaches to take the family swimming.  There is a small local store for that ice-cream at the end of the day for the kids.

You will also find a playground for the kids and tennis courts for adults and kids to play, at Matapouri Bay.  There is ample parking for everyone and also public toilets.

If you are feeling adventurous, why not take the walk to Whale Bay, which will take you 40 min one way. You will see spectacular views of the coast along the way.

Whale Bay

Whale Bay is a short drive north past Matapouri Bay to the north, or just over the hill if you are walking.

With a bush fringed beach and white sand this is a great beach. Sorry but you will have to park on the road and walk down the hill to this beach but the walk is worth it, you will be walking through an ancient grove of Puriri Trees.

Take your snorkel gear with you for some great snorkeling and it's a great spot for picnics and safe swimming.  Whale Bay provides basic public toilets.

Sandy Bay

A little further north from Whale Bay you are going to find Sandy Bay which is very popular for its great surf breaks.

More suited to all the surfers, but still a great beach to enjoy.  Parking is available off the road and there are basic toilets available. This is the furthest beach from Whangarei  - about 50 minutes away, but is worth the drive to see it.

Sharon, Jo and the whole team at your chosen Whangarei accommodation, which is of course, Bella Vista Whangarie are looking forward to hosting you.

Wanaka is a walkers dream and there really is something for everyone.  Whether it be a steep, challenging upward climb, or a gentle amble alongside Lake Wanaka, you can take your pick depending on your mood.  Of course it is often those harder tramps that bring the rewards such as the view from Mount Iron that takes your eye across the lake to the peaks of the Southern Alps and Mount Aspiring National Park.  Whatever direction you head, you can be certain that you have made the right Wanaka accommodation choice with Bella Vista, quietly nestled in the heart of Wanaka township and a stone's throw from the lake.

Here's Bella Vista Wanaka's top five Wanaka Walks:

Roys Peak Track

A must do in New Zealand and an Instagram favourite, this day walk will give you magnificent views of Wanaka, the lake and the Southern Alps.  This walk is a 16km return walk which would take an average walker between 5-6 hours. This is a popular track and one of Wanaka's best day hikes.
 

Isthmus Peak Track 

A long, steady climb that rewards walkers with spectacular, panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea as well as the mountains of the Southern Alps.  The peak summit sits at 1,385 metres and this advanced walk will take somewhere between 5-7 hours.

Mt Iron Track

Mount Iron is one of Wanaka's most popular short walks with spectacular views. This walk is a 1.5 hour loop so is perfect if only stopping over in Wanaka for one night. The walk is suitable for all ages and abilities and whilst a little steep in parts, it is incredibly rewarding once you reach the top.

Blue Pools

The Blue Pools track and the Young Link Track are located just outside of Makarora and snake through beautiful beech forests to the famous Blue Pools site.  This walk offers a perfect break to your journey if you are travelling between Wanaka and the West Coast.  The  Blue Pools track take about 1 hour return, is 3km long and walking through the mature beech forest across swing bridges to the pools.  The Youn Link track is a longer walk extending from the Blue Pools track which adds a further 4km to your tramp.

Wanaka to Albert Town

This walk takes you right from your room at Bella Vista Motel Wanaka along the edge of Wanaka to the Clutha River Outlet.  Then continue walking along the edge of the river to Albert Town.  Take your time and enjoy a cup of coffee at the famous Pembroke Patisserie.  You can then return the same way you came, or return to Wanaka via the Mount Iron Track.  Finish the day with an ice cream at the very popular Patagonia Chocolates lake front store.

Tom, Melissa and the team look forward to hosting you

‘YOU SHALL NOT PASS!’

Sir Ian McKellen helped blur the distinction between a fantasy land and New Zealand’s very real rugged landscapes. “Middle Earth is a real place and it is New Zealand,” he would say:

This stunning location in Mid Canterbury is the backdrop for Edoras, the capital of Rohan and New Zealand is home so come and see it for yourself! You will feel the stress unwind as you make your way into the hills and simply let the vista blow your mind away.

Take a one and a half hour drive from your Ashburton accommodation, take a picnic, climb Mount Sunday, a low, rounded hill shaped by a glacier, and you have arrived.  This was the site of Edoras in the Lord of the Rings movies.  Feel the awesome power of the landscape, and imagine how the fantasy unfolded in front of these amazing vistas. We can’t recommend it enough.

The road to Mount Sunday is well-signposted from Mount Somers on State Highway 72. This road takes you directly to the small settlement of Lake Camp and Lake Clearwater and then further onto Mount Sunday. The last section is a well-maintained gravel road and be aware you will lose cell phone coverage just after Mount Somers.  Perhaps that's not a bad thing. Make sure your car is filled with gas and you have supplies with you for the day as there are no shops of service stations from Mount Somers onwards.

If you are travelling up this way in summer, you might also want to consider taking a dip in Lake Camp on the way or upon your return from your tramp. The lake has a roped-off area and beach for swimmers and is a perfect spot for your picnic. In the winter these lakes can freeze right over and the locals go ice skating.  Whatever the season, you will be stopping every 10 minutes to take another photo.

Once you have arrived at the Mount Sunday car park, it is a short walk on the well-formed Mount Sunday track, but still, a good pair of shoes is our advice. You’ll eventually cross a walking bridge as your ascent begins. It is a short sharp climb but is easily manageable for most people. Once at the top the views are awesome and you will get a wonderful Bella Vista (beautiful view) of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and the tussock valley floor.

Upon your return back toward the Ashburton Lakes, there is another hidden gem you will be glad you discover.  Look for the Hakatere Heron Road and follow it to the The Hakatere Conservation Park.  This is a beautiful part of New Zealand and we encourage everyone to come and explore. It’s more of the beaten track, but the scenery is every bit impressive.

There is so much more to see including a historic building at Hakatere Corner, several picturesque lakes and heaps of mountain views. There are many walks and mountain bike tracks to explore and if you love fishing, a brown trout or rainbow is yours to take from many of the lakes.

Are you excited to visit our backyard? Book Bella Vista accommodation Ashburton as you enjoy this very local Middle Earth adventure. Michelle is more than happy to give you a map and send you on your merry way with all the advice you need.

Bella Vista Motel Ashburton looks forward to hosting you and showing you our local Lord of the Rings country.

Do you love walking or need to take some daily exercise when you are traveling, whether it is for work or pleasure? We have great walks just a few minutes from Bella Vista Whangarei that are very enjoyable.  Please note that some walks may require a higher level of fitness.

Hatea Loop Track

The Hatea Loop walk is 4.2km and takes in all the sites of the Whangarei Town Basin including the Whangarei Art Museum, and the Hundertwasser Art Centre.  Called Huarahi o the Whai (Pathway of Opportunity), along the way you can read the heritage panels and view the sculptures along the trail. Travel over the Te Matau Pohe (Bascule Bridge) and enjoy this picturesque setting. Once finished enjoy a nice cup of coffee along the water front viewing all the yachts.  The walk can accommodate wheelchairs and is perfect for small children.

Hatea River Walk to Whangarei Falls

Follow the Hatea River through the highlights of Whangarei city including the Town Basin, Mair Park, the AH Reed Kauri Park, and Whangarei Falls. There’s a mix of pleasant bush walks and urban landscapes to enjoy on this 6km walk.

You can’t visit the Northland region of New Zealand without seeing a kauri forest! Kauri are the largest trees in New Zealand and can only be naturally found in the north of the North Island. The AH Reed Kauri Park gets you up-close to the forest giants on a tree-top boardwalk taking only 25 minutes to complete. The AH Reed Kauri Park connects to the Hatea River Walk and Whangarei Falls making for a longer walk of two and-a-half hours.

Mt Mania Walk 

Fancy something more challenging? Walking up Mt Mania could be the challenge you are looking for.  Located in the Whangarei Heads area, the walk is a short 45 minute drive from BV Whangarei.  The total walking distance to the top is 3.5km and the round trip will take two hours climbing to 420 metres above sea level.

From the carpark, the track climbs steeply through native forest to the summit with breathtaking 360 views of the Whangarei Harbour. 

Bream Head – Te Whara Track

For a real hike in the Whangarei area, make sure you hit the Te Whara Track at the Bream Head Reserve. This six hour one-way hike goes through protected kiwi habitat to deliver some sensational views at the end of the Whangarei Heads. There are also shorter walks in the reserve like the 3-hour return Peach Cove Track which links with the Te Whara Track and provides an overnight option at the Peach Cove Hut.

Whangerie is a marvelous destination and there is plenty of attractions and activities on offer including these walks enabling you to enjoy using Bella Vista as an ideal option as your preferred Whangarie accommodation choice. 

Sharon and Jo look forward to hosting you.