Coromandel Life Spring/Holiday 2014

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A hidden gem:
Opoutere Beach
OPOUTERE BEACH has long been a haven
for artists, writers and others wanting a bit
of ‘real Coromandel’ living – no beachside
developments in sight of this pristine 5 km
stretch of white sand and surf. Its intense
natural beauty has an appeal that draws
people from everywhere wanting to soak in
the laid back tranquility of the surf beach and indulge in the varied water
activities in the Wharekawa Harbour.
The beach is perfect for surfing or surf fishing, while nature lovers will
enjoy visiting the Wharekawa Harbour and Wildlife Refuge, breeding
grounds for several endangered bird species including the NZ Dotterel
shown above and the Variable Oystercatcher.
In addition to the harbour and reserve walks
there are easy strolls along the beach to
Ohui rock pools at the northern end of the
beach and into the state forest to visit the
historic Phoenix goldmine.
Opoutere Beach is only 10 minutes north of
Whangamata, 25 minutes south of Tairua.
Reach it via the cross peninsula road, 25A.
Opoutere School’s big fundraiser is planned for Friday 31st October at
the school, starting at 5.30pm with a reserve date of November 1st.
This ‘Fireworks Extravaganza’, one of the biggest professional fireworks
displays on the Coromandel, is thanks to the very generous support
of Jennian Homes Coromandel, Carters Whangamata, and Corocon.
Expect live music, a huge bonfire, gala games, and other entertainment,
including the DJ, leading up to dark when the fireworks go off.
The fair will feature a range of delicious food and, for those with a
sweet tooth, there is the ever popular candy floss and the Whangamata
Kindergarten will be providing delicious desserts.
This fun and popular alcohol free family event supports both Opoutere
School and Whangamata Kindergarten. Family tickets are only $25
(2 adults and 3 kids), Adults $10, Kids $5. Available from Opoutere
School, Saltwater Surf Shop, and Whangamata Kindergarten. See the
Coromandel Life calendar p 48 for more details.
FIREWORKS EXTRAVANZA!
Friday 31st October in Opoutere
The Opoutere School PTA puts on quite a show each year
around the time of Guy Fawkes Day. This historic holiday features
fireworks and bonfires to celebrate the foiling of a 5 November, 1605 plot
to blow up Parliament. Guy Fawkes was the first conspirator caught with
the powder barrels, and residents celebrated his capture with bonfires.
Roberta Huffman
ORGANIC & GLUTEN FREE FOOD
Try our bestsellers...
REAL FRUIT ICE CREAMS
SMOOTHIES
MACADAMIA NUT BRITTLE
Main St • tairua • p: 07 864 7080
Tairua’s NaTuraL rEsOurCE FOr a
HEaLTHY LiFEsTYLE!
GUITY EVELYN
View fine art by renowned contemporary French/New Zealand
painter Guity Evelyn at the artist’s home/studio overlooking
unspoilt Opoutere Beach and Wharekawa Harbour.
Guity’s unique art and distinctive style exude the beauty of The
Coromandel tinged with hints of Provence and the Cote d’ Azur,
from where she originates. These contrasting reflections of where
the Pacific meets the Mediterranean express a character all of
their own. Guity’s boldness of colour and an affinity for both the
figurative and abstract have made her art sought by national and
international collectors.
Moonsong La Muse de Provence
View Also
One-off jewellery
by David Evelyn
La Reveuse
TOPADAHIL ART STUDIOS • 289 Opoutere Rd. Opoutere Beach
10 min north of Whangamata • Open Daily • Visitors Welcome
P 07 865 7266 • M027 342 1480 •
“...Guity’s canvas surfaces defy optical logic, playing tricks with their
depth with their shifting patterns and melting colours ... They strike a
chord with people from all over the world, many of whom come back to
collect more of Guity’s art. Visitors at Topadahil Studios watching
the changing colours of the sea and the movement
of light across the sky, understand...”
(excerpts courtesy of Kath Webster, Art News NZ)
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