TRIP 2 CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND
TRIP 2
a journey through
Waitomo
Raglan to Kāwhia via Te Papatapu & KauroaKāwhia Rd 1hr 8min, 52km
Kāwhia to Waitomo Caves via Te Anga Rd 1hr 46min, 89km
ourney from one coastal township to another. Head southwest from Raglan along SH 23 and turn right at Te Mata Rd. Continue through Makomako before reaching the sleepy but charming seaside town of Kāwhia. Make sure you pack swimwear, even in winter, as Kāwhia’s Ocean Beach boasts a natural hot spring. Take a spade, dig a hollow in the sand and voila! warm water to soak in. Feeling soothed and relaxed, head back to the car to continue the journey along the coast and then inland, on to SH 39 through to Ōtorohanga – for a stop, a wander and a cup of tea – and then on to Waitomo.
LEFT: Glowworms in Waitomo Caves • TOP: Ruakuri bush walk BOTH IMAGES: © Discover Waitomo ABOVE: Bridal Veil Falls © Getty Images
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