Raglan, NEW ZEALAND
Airing Date: May 30th, 2005
Looking for refreshing getaway? Visit one of the most beautiful costal towns in the world.
A 35 minute drive from Hamilton and 2 hours drive from Auckland on the beautiful west coast of the North Island of New Zealand is the seaside township of Raglan. They have made movies about this place, they have hosted a world championship surfing event here, and, as the years pass, it seems to have become one of New Zealand's hot spots.
Spend time at one of the many black sand beaches swimming, surfing, and body boarding, or just working on the perfect tan! Explore this beautiful town and check out its unique shops and restaurants. Or, for the explorer in you, trek down to the bottom of Bridal Veil Falls for a spectacular view of this natural waterfall. These are just some of the exciting activities you can experience in Raglan.
Raglan's world famous breaks are found at 3 points: Manu, Whale and Indicators. This is the hottest surfing mecca in NZ, if not in this part of the planet. Manu Bay (Waireke) is 8 kms from Raglan. This famous surf break, also known as The Point, as it is said to have the longest left hand ride in the world.
Artwork is abundant in the cafes of Raglan and a must see is the Aqua Velvet. The only artist's work displayed this year has been of Maori carver Aaron Kereopa. He carves surfboard blanks into traditional Maori designs. These carvings stand out not only for their size, but also for their intricate Polynesian designs and three-dimensional shapes, the texturing of the colours and their overall impact.
Last, but not least, end off your day with soothing hot water springs. 55 kilometres south of Raglan is Kawhia, where you can find Ocean Beach (also known as Te Puia (Hot Water) Beach), where hot springs well up through the sand. Between low and mid-tide you can scoop out a hot pool and enjoy a seaside soak.
Further Information:
Getting to Raglan is quite affordable with Air New Zealand to Auckland from:
$529 ex Sydney
$533 ex Melbourne
$537 ex Brisbane
$872 ex Perth
Prices available online only and include surcharges, fees and taxes. Conditions apply.
airnewzealand.com.au.
Have a comfortable stay Crabrock Villa from $225 a couple, $50 additional adult and $25 children. Other Villas start from $175 a couple.
Rohi Manu: Ph. 0011 64 7 825 6831.
Prices correct at 30/5/05.
