TRIP 4 COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND
HIGHLIGHTS
ABOVE LEFT: Māori carving on Mt Hikurangi, East Cape © Matt Crawford ABOVE RIGHT: St Mary’s Church, Tikitiki © Eastland Tourism
MT HIKURANGI This sacred mountain is the first place in the world to see the sunrise. Take a tour to view the nine impressive carvings at the summit that tell the legends of Maui. TE KAHA This pretty place has glorious bays and beaches perfect for swimming. There is very good fishing to be had here, too.
ST MARY’S CHURCH, TIKITIKI This beautiful Māori church is home to some of New Zealand’s finest examples of woven tukutuku panels and wooden carvings. Built in the 1920s, and initiated by Ngāti Porou leader Sir Āpirana Ngata, it is a tribute to the tribe’s soldiers who died during World War I. Entry by gold coin donation.
EAST CAPE LIGHTHOUSE, TE ARAROA An elegant lighthouse at the easternmost point of New Zealand, at the end of a 22km-long unsealed road. The lighthouse sits 154m above sea level; to reach it, climb 700 steps. The views are sensational. Not to be missed.
HICKS BAY Originally called Wharekahika, this remote bay was later named for Zachary Hickes, part of Captain James Cook’s 1769 expedition. The beach is steeped in Māori history and there are remains of several pā. Visit the old wharf at nearby Onepoto Bay. Stunning part of the world.
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