Paihia Star Motel

Sand Surfing near 90 Miles Beach Part 1

by darthmilmo

At the northern end of 90 Miles Beach, we headed inland through a small creek. The bus stopped at the side of a big sand dune so that we could do some serious sand surfing. As the bus parked on the side of the creek, we had an uphill battle to the top of the sand dune. As in any sand environment, every yard gained as you go uphill is followed by a loss of a foot downhill. At least the sand was small as powder and as cool as the ground covered by shade. The reward from atop is worthwhile as you get a 360 degree view of the region. Not only that, once I caught my breath, I proceeded to go downhill. Instead of walking, I did some surfing - sand-surfing - using a bogie board and riding it head first. I went first on the group of 25. I ended up going all the way down to the creek, despite a slight correction when I nearly lost control. See, you used your feet to brake and steer so it can and does get complicated. In any case, it was awesome! The ride started down a semi-steep slope. Then, it slowed down on a flat segment before heading down one last slope. In the end, you reach the creek bellow. Less than a handful manage to reach the creek so I was glad I was one of them! It was such a rewarding experience that I went ahead and did the same slope twice! Again, I managed to reach the creek with no qualms.

Definitely Take a Cruise

by keeweechic

Take a cruise on the famous `cream trip` around some of the 144 islands and bays and through the well known `hole in the rock`.

I finally did this on my last trip home and it was great. The weather was fabulous and it was just an idyllic afternoon.

Haruru Falls

by keeweechic

Haruru means “big noise” which is fairly appropriate for the noise of the falls. The water falls are in a horseshoe shape and quite lovely. The Maori legend claimed that a taniwha (water monster) lived in the lagoon below the falls.

You can walk to Haruru Falls along the Waitangi walking track, or drive to Haruru Falls township (3 kms from Paihia). In the 1800s, there were over 100 Maori villages along the Haruru Falls river.
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More Cruising and Islands

by keeweechic

The cruises in Summer are pretty full. You'd be wise to get yourself on the boat early to get a seat (either inside or out) otherwise you will find yourself standing.

Overlooking Russell. township.

Photos which are taken by myself and all headings are copyright and digitally marked. Please do not use them without permission. Thanks.
(c) keeweechic 2001-2006 (copyright)