Talk to a Rāwene Local

Lisa Strathdee Creative Director, OH! Studio Rāwene

Motukaraka Point church © NorthlandNZ TOP: Lisa Strathdee © Ross T Smith

My top must-do’s for visitors are:

• Tane Mahuta, Waipōua Forest.This ancient tree also known as God of the Forest puts one’s life into perspective.

• Arai Te Uru Reserve. An accessible walk amongst windswept mānuka offering views over the Tasman Sea and Hokianga Harbour. Always stunning, spectacular on a clear day.

• Pou Herenga Tai – Twin Coast Cycle Trail. A new way to enter Hokianga Harbour with the boardwalk just out of Hōreke.

• Top of the harbour on the Ranui – The Ranui vessel connects Hōreke, Māngungu Mission and Kohukohu over the water. It’s magical being out on the harbour.

You might not have heard of this but I recommend a walk at low tide to the Koutu Boulders.

For a delightful day trip, I would suggest Waimamaku beach for some west coast air. Take a picnic lunch, a bottle of water and enjoy! It’s the best kind of downtime around.

Living in Rāwene is awesome because of the cultures, the connections, a sense of timelessness. I also love how the light plays between sky, land and water here. It’s a pretty special place.

Want more? Visit https://aatraveller.co.nz/travel-guides and get planning.

Looking for a place to stay? Book accommodation at aa.travel.co.nz