Off The Beaten Track - The Beach Cottage

Raglan Boat Charters is located at the Raglan Wharf on Whaingaroa Harbour, the West Coast of New Zealand's North Island, 40 kms from Hamilton and approx 150kms from Auckland, Tauranga and Rotorua. About our Cruises: Departing Raglan Wharf aboard the Wahinemoe to explore the charm of Whaingaroa Harbour – cruise past large conservation reserves, farmland and fishing villages. You will see marine wildlife and ancient limestone rock formations, and listen to fascinating tales about the history and culture of this very special area. Your friendly skipper and crew will take great care of you and make sure you have a magical experience. The sunset cruise is the best and its extremely rare on the west coast to find such an excellent viewpoint.

A volunteer heritage railway group providing the public with steam &/or diesel train rides on 5km of the old Rotowaro to Glen Afton branch line 12km drive west of Huntly. Open days operate on the first Sunday of every month. For other dates or to charter a train for your group contact the Secretary by email. The Open Day ticket covers rides on the main train between 10.00am and 3.00pm. Rides on an old bush "jigger" are usually available at a small extra cost. Souvenirs, a sausage sizzle, other food items and drinks are normally available on Open Days. We have EFTPOS. As well as train rides, the railway has a significant collection of heritage industrial railway items on display, much of which came from the coal & timber industries.

In our Group Surf Lesson, you will learn all the basics about your board, the waves, how to paddle, stand up, and a dose of surf safety. You’ll be fully prepared before you hit the water and your instructor will be right there beside you, pushing you into waves and offering you their expert tips and tricks. It’s our goal to have you paddling and surfing on your own by the end of your session. We pride ourselves on offering a lesson that sets you up for success and one that keeps you surfing.

Nikau Cave is less than 90 minutes drive southwest of Auckland, has thousands of glowworms and amazing formations, but no crowds. The 90 minute tour is personal and unhurried. Located on a working farm, the cave is 1km long with a stream running through it and is in its natural state. Most of the cave is open and spacious, except for a 12m length which must be crawled through. We provide a helmet and flashlight. A moderate level of fitness is required and a change of clothes and shoes with good tread. Surrounded by a river, the café is designed to showcase the stunning landscape. The seasonally inspired menu offers a range of fresh and locally produced dishes and drinks. Bookings are essential for caving.

Test your personal limits as you top rope climb the ancient fossil limestone cliffs of Stone Valley. With spectacular views of the countryside, boulder valleys, and the extinct volcanoe of Mt Pirongia, it’s a high energy adventure. Your fully qualified and experienced guide will teach you the safest form of climbing there is and impart knowledge, such as rock identification, belaying, equipment selection and equipment checking. Not only are our guides excellent climbing instructors, but they are a dab hand of getting those awesome insta shots whilst you’re scaling the face, of all which you will receive for free. All equipment, photos and instruction is provided with free pick up and drop off available from Raglan.

Challenge yourself to scramble, rock climb and abseil the cascading waterfalls all whilst experiencing the magic the canyon has to offer. The ancient lava flow is surrounded by native bush and natural beauty. Following your experienced and passionate guide, you will navigate your way through many obstacles, including waterfalls, pools and boulders, ensuring that your adrenaline levels are high. All of the guides are qualified, friendly, professional and highly experienced, guaranteeing you will always feel safe and comfortable. Throughout the trip, the guide will explain to you facts about the flora, fauna and history of the area. All equipment, photos and instruction is provided with free pick up and drop off available from Raglan.