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Cape Reinga Wanderer Tour
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Journey to Cape Reinga in the far north of New Zealand, a unique region of haunting beauty which provides many natural wonders and plenty of adventure.- Hotel pick-up from most central accommodation
- Travel on luxury air-conditioned Waverider coaches, specially designed for rugged journeys so that you travel in safety and comfort
- Friendly and informative local driver/guide
- 20 minute boardwalk through the Puketi Kauri forest
- BBQ Lunch at the Houhora Game Fishing Club (if this option is selected)
- Visit to Te Paki quicksand stream and sand dunes
- Visit to the Ancient Kauri Kingdom
- Journey along 90 Mile Beach
Your tour starts from Paihia or Russell and takes you on a fun filled day to Cape Reinga at the northern tip of the Aupouri Peninsula and you will enjoy many stops along the way. You will stop firstly at the Puketi Kauri forest where you can marvel at the ancient trees towering above you on a 20 minute boardwalk stroll through this native forest. Reaching heights of over 50m, these mighty trees have been exploited in the past for their wood and gum, but can live to over 2000 years old, and are now largely protected in New Zealand.
Your coach will then take you barrelling along never-ending Ninety Mile Beach past huge sand dunes and the Te Paki quicksand stream. On 90 Mile Beach you can go for a swim, fossick in the sand for shells or dig for pipis, New Zealand shellfish. If you have something more adventurous in mind, how about tobogganing down one of the 7 square km of enormous sand dunes.
All this activity is bound to build your appetite and the exclusive lunch stop at the Houhora Game Fishing Club, overlooking the stunning Houhora harbor, offers the opportunity to try a delicious "Kiwi BBQ" lunch.
Your driver provides you with an informative commentary throughout the day and as you continue on to the lighthouse at Cape Reinga you will soon begin to realise the significance of this area to the Maori people. Not only is this remote and rugged area the place where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean meet creating an amazing fusion of different colours and currents, it is also the place where Maori believe the spirits of the dead depart the earth. The souls of the dead are thought to travel north to Cape Reinga (or Te Rerenga Wairua) and then slide down the roots of a lone pohutukawa tree to join their ancestral spirits in the underworld, Hawaiki. This 800 year old pohutukawa tree is still standing for you to see today.
After visiting the fully functioning light house you will say goodbye to this magical area and head to Mangonui, a delightful fishing port which thrived when the whaling industry was in full swing before travelling back down the length of the Aupouri Peninsula.
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- Optional gratuities
Guests should dress in preparation for an activity packed full day tour, with time spent outdoors.
Please also bring a swimming costume.
It is highly recommended that guests bring along a camera for amazing photo opportunities.
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