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.

This lesson is for kids under 14 only. Your grom will learn everything about surfing in around 1.30. Please check out our "school camp" weekends during school holidays.

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.

As you descend, you’ll climb and abseil the cascading waterfalls all whilst under the light of your head torch, and the luminescent shine of the glow worms! Feel safe in the company of an experienced guide, as they lead you on a great adventure. Throughout the trip hear the stories, history, and knowledge of the landscape and local area from your passionate guide. As darkness falls, you’ll begin to see the luminescent transformation take place. Witness new worlds of light being created by the native New Zealand glowworms who call this place home. Take a minute to stop for a moment of peace and tranquillity, with a hot cup of freshly made Kawakawa tea. All equipment, photos and instruction is provided.

Surf Lessons for all levels from beginner to advanced. Ngarunui Beach in Raglan is the perfect place to learn to surf or improve your surfing. Surf Safe Surf School is very popular with tourists and kiwis. We cater for singles, couples, groups, Families and kids ages 7-15 years. Max of 8 Adults or kids for Surfing lessons. Head Surf Coach Steve Freeman was trained in Europe under the British Surfing Association. Steve is an ISA level 3 Coach and an ISA Surf Contest Judge. Try our 2, 3, 4, 5 or 7 day surfing course. Soft boards, wetsuits and high viz rash vests, photos provided.

Visit the award-winning Hamilton gardens and the Waikato’s most popular visitor attraction. As the sun goes down, be guided by the light of the glow worms and stars and descend into the old freshwater canyon stream flowing down from Mt Karioi. Explore natural underground formations and caves with a canyoning expedition in Raglan. This is a highly rated, truly magical canyoning experience.