Summer Hot Spots

SummerHOT SPOTS

THE SHACK - RAGLAN

Come rain, hail or shine, The Shack on the main street in Raglan is always pumping. While others come and go, The Shack (named Waikato's Best Cafe in 2019 Hospitality Awards) remains, combining impeccable service with delicious food in a bright, welcoming atmosphere, making it the place to go when visiting Raglan.

Owners Justin and Alix and their team beautifully integrate sustainability into their business, using local produce wherever possible. Forgot your Keep Cup for that takeaway coffee? No problem, there is a mug library for your Rocket espresso. If it’s a flat white you drink, the milk is from local dairy Dreamview, and comes delivered daily in glass bottles.

Staying for lunch or brunch? The menu is hearty with a healthy twist. Justin’s food is influenced by fresh in season produce, and always tasty. Complementing the menu is a tempting array of cakes and sweet treats, and thoughtfully selected NZ beers, wines and soft drinks.

www.theshackraglan.com

MR PICKLES - HAMILTON

With an enviable position facing the Waikato River, Mr Pickles’ outdoor area is the place to be this summer. Be it a leisurely lunch or a sundowner, take a pew and relax as you watch the river go by.

The refreshments won’t disappoint either! From their trademark, make your own charcuterie plate—perfect when you just want some nibbles to go with your cocktail—to the ever changing seasonal menu, giving you an excuse to keep revisiting to see what’s new.

The wine list is carefully curated and the staff are both helpful and knowledgeable, making it way too easy for this to be your summer hang out.

www.mrpickles.co.nz

CYCLE WAIHI BEACH

Did you know that you can cycle the length and breadth of Waihi Beach? From the North End to Bowentown and back, with interesting stops and detours along the way. With many accommodation providers offering bikes for guests, and a recently opened bike hire business in The Village, the Waihi Beach Info team have put together a map along with a couple of example itineraries to help you plan your ride. There’s something for everyone, from a lazy Sunday ride to family fun or a serious workout.

www.waihibeachinfo.co.nz

FALLS RETREAT - WAIHI

If biking is your thing then the Karangahake Gorge is a must do! Whether you are biking or driving through, make sure a stop at Falls Retreat is on the itinerary. Whether it’s you reward for a hard day’s biking, a handy way to break up your drive or a day trip in itself you won’t be disappointed. There is plenty of room for the kids to play and a delicious menu to satisfy all tastes, all set in an idyllic spot.

www.fallsretreat.co.nz

THE DRY DOCK CAFE

Wharf street refurbishments are finally finished in time to enjoy downtown Tauranga this summer. So make a beeline to Dry Dock cafe and enjoy the great coffee, food and surrounds.

www.facebook.com/thedrydockcafe