EXPLORE MAHIA PENINSULA

The beach-fringed promontory of Mahia Peninsula just out into the Pacific Ocean provides a vast playground for a great variety of activities such as fishing, diving, surfing, gentle walks and is a great place for a family holiday. There’s a selection of safe, sandy beaches perfect for swimming and picnics. There are sheltered reefs and rock pool environments to explore and fish from. Catching a range of swells, Mahia’s variety of surfing beaches and points are known internationally for their consistent excellence.

Places of interest include Coronation Reserve where Maori were baptised by William Williams in 1842. Close by rests the anchor from the S.S. Tasmania which founderd in 1897. Mahia Scenic Reserve provides an interesting 3.5km loop track through classic coastal native bush. There are camping grounds and motels at Mahia beach and Opoutama. About the peninsula are lodge, bed and breakfast, farm and homestay accommodation options.


PERFECT SUMMERS BESIDE THE OCEAN

Mahia Peninsula is a mecca for people who love the sea. Boat launching facilities on both sides of the peninsula allow access to excellent offshore fishing in almost all weather. Surfcasting, rock fishing, snorkel and scuba diving are all equally popular. Fresh fish, paua (abalone) and crayfish are staples on the Mahia holiday menu. Charter fishing boats and diving guides are available. At various times of the year dolphins and whales visit.

Inland at Nuhaka, the Kahungunu Community Marae (Maori meeting place) has a splendid, ornately carved meeting house and a few kilometer's north is the meticulously maintained Morere Hot Springs, set in the 365 hectare Morere Scenic Reserve. There are several public and private spas, including the magnificent Nikau Pools, set in a tranquil forest grove. Bush walks from 10 minutes to three hours are well signposted. In nearby limestone country at Mangaone there are limestone caves.

For more information contact the Wairoa Information Centre.