THE WAIKATO: GET INTO IT

Named after the longest river in Aotearoa, which runs from Taupōand out to the Tasman, the 425 kilometres of winding water will lead you through some of the most picturesque parts of the North Island.You’ll come across internationallyacclaimed gardens,New Zealand’s only tea plantation, and countless iconic natural wonders such as Waitomo, The Blue Spring, and the Bridal Veil Falls. Come with Avenues and get into the Waikato!

RAGLAN Raglan’s bohemian atmosphere and idyllic coastal setting make it the perfect spot to while away an afternoon browsing the boutique galleries, artist studios, and shops. Completing your day out, graze at the many gourmet eateries, laze on the beach, and kayak on the harbour. Those looking for more adventurous water-sport activities can take a short drive to the beaches that make the area a surfing mecca, including Manu Bay which has one of the most extended left-hand breaks in the world. BLUE SPRING Blue Spring at Te Waihou Walkway has water so pure and clean it supplies around 60 per cent of New Zealand’s bottled water! Having been underground for up to 100 years, the crystal-clear quality of the water results in it turning in to an inspiring, beautiful blue hue. An easy walk for all ages, there is a short 30-minute return walk accessed from Leslie Road or an approximately one-anda-half-hour walk each way starting from Whites Road.

LOVEGROVE LANE The streets and lanes surrounding Grey Street, Hamilton East are well worth exploring. Run by a group of people determined to support one another and grow the up-and-coming suburb collaboratively: The Flower Crate, Hearth Juice Bar and Grocer, Sun Salute Yoga Centre, Framing House, and GG’s Café can all be found here. Visitors here often find themselves pleasantly surprised by what’s on offer down Lovegrove Lane.

TE AROHA MINERAL SPAS This is the perfect place to relax if you’re winding down from cycling the Hauraki Rail Trail, exploring Mt Te Aroha, or just after a bit of pampering. The water which comes from the only hot soda water spring in NZ is so therapeutic, and you can bathe in a porcelain claw-foot slipper bath, traditional wooden tubs or in the recently reopened Number Two Bathhouse – the last remaining bathhouse from the 1880s.

HERD OF COWS?

The Herd of Cows? street art instalment is a collection of life-size cow sculptures throughout the town showcasing the history of Morrinsville and highlights the town’s strong dairying heritage. Each cow is lovingly decorated by artists for local families, community groups, and businesses, making each one unique. Call into the Morrinsville i-SITE Visitor Information Centre for a copy of the trail map.

THE TIMBER TRAIL The Timber Trail follows historic tramways through the ancient native forest of the Pureora Forest Park. The trail takes in 42 bridges, including eight suspension bridges, as it winds its way through giant rimu, totara, and kahikatea trees. Stretching across 85km between Pureora village and the old logging town of Ongarue, The Timber Trail offers riders a twoday backcountry adventure through an area steeped in Māori legends and logging history.

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