Awanui to Cape Reinga
In Maori belief, Cape Reinga is the departure place for the spritis of the recently deceased. The spirits are believed to climb down the twisted pohutukawa tree on the cliff to reach the ocean; then they swim north to the ancestral land of Hawaiki.
The historic Cape Reinga lighthouse marks the extreme north-western point of New Zealand. Out to sea lies the Columbia Bank maelstrom where the Tasman and the Pacific meet - sometimes producing waves more than 10 metres high. The visitor facilities at Cape Reinga have recently been updated with interpretation signs along the walkway. The road to the Cape is now fully tarsealed.
Parengarenga Harbour
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Enjoy some cool, green solitude on your drive through the Aupouri Peninsula - you might even see Aupouri's wild horses. The peninsula is a great spot for fishing with north, east and west facing coastlines, the weather is always good for fishing - take on the famous 90 Mile Beach, one of the most famous surfcasting beaches in the world. Or simply dig your toes into the sand taking a peaceful walk on sparkling white silica sand beaches. For the more adventurous try your hand at surfing the giant sand dunes of Te Paki.
Explore the edges of huge, shallow Parengarenga Harbour - the pure quartz sand is dazzling. Visit the magnificent sparkling waters and silica sand beaches of Henderson's Bay and Rarawa Beach. Other features are the Three Kings Islands, Houhora Harbour and Rangaunu Harbour. An organised tour along 90 Mile Beach to Cape Reinga is highly recommended. Rental cars are not permitted to drive along the beach.
Local hospitality will assure your stay in the 'Top of NZ' is something special. There's a good selection of accommodation on the peninsula, some places to eat, as well as some exciting activities to choose from.
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