Coromandel Life Magazine 2018 Winter

41 / 64

for a fun
winter’s day
While preparing their ad, we mentioned to Chris and Rebecca from
Pedal & Paddle that this issue would include ways to encourage people
to get out and about on the Coromandel, even in the Winter months.
They were keen to offer their take on suggested ‘in and outdoor’
activities around their beloved surf-centred town.
After 25 years in the business, they are certainly a go-to for advice
about where to go and what to do, and for the gear to get you into the
Whangamata outdoors. Call into their shop at 700 Port Rd.
It all sounds like a bit of a cliché really, but it’s
true! We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful
place as Whangamata – an epic coastline and
offshore islands, mountain bike trails, bush
walks, hidden beaches to discover and explore
– this little piece of paradise continues to turn it
on, even through the Winter months.
So what would we recommend to do in just
a day in Whangamata? First, we’d tell you to
slow down, relax, stay a while and enjoy what
we have to offer. But if time is not on your side,
here’s what we’d do:
Start the day off early. If you’ve never
witnessed the sunrise over the ocean, (and
even if you have), it is a special sight to behold.
Find a spot on the beach to watch
the world wake up as the sun peeks over
the horizon.
Probably in need of some waking up yourself,
head into town and grab yourself a quality
coffee and breakfast at one of our many cafes
scattered along the main street. #Luvcoffee on
Port Road is our go-to for excellent coffee and
the friendly staff.
Keen for a morning adventure? Come see
us at Pedal & Paddle and get sorted with a
kayak or SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard). Then
wrap up warm and head off to check out the
spectacular islands accessible off the beach,
especially Whenuakura Island – it holds a
special place in our hearts.
Whenuakura is significant historically and
culturally, and an amazing geological
phenomenon – colloquially known as ‘Donut
Island’ due to the eroded hole in its middle,
creating a stunning lagoon inside. It makes for
a fantastic couple of hours on the water.
Or hire a bike from our large selection and
selection and make your way to the mountain
bike park. Whangamata has an awesome
network of trails, looked after by local
volunteers, and there’s something for all level
of riders.
Afternoon activities. After your morning on
the water, grab some fish and chips for lunch,
maybe peruse some of the shops in town and
pick your afternoon activity.
Let’s surf, fish, swing or stroll! Hire a
surfboard or have a surf lesson with the girls
down at Whangamata Surf School, you’ll
keep warm from all that paddling! Sneak in a
round of 9 hole golf or mini putt if that’s more
your style. Drop a line off the wharf and see if
you can bag yourself a fish.
Take a bush walk – check out the water fall in
the Wentworth Valley (all the more impressive
if it’s been raining). This is a well graded track
and can be walked in all conditions, or find
the tracks to some of our beautiful beaches
where you will most likely find you have
stretches of sand all to yourself. The local
information centre can give you updates on
the tracks that are currently open.
Sunset wine ‘n’ dine. After a full-on day of
outdoor adventures, enjoy a well-deserved
beverage and meal at one of the great
restaurants in town. Sunset is the best time
to find yourself at the Whangamata Ocean
Sports Club with great views over the harbour
and beach. The perfect spot to wind down
and reflect on a fantastic day in the outdoors
and start making plans for the next one!
Whangamata, whatever the weather. The
weather and the water might be a little cooler,
but there’s still so much to do in Whangamata
in the Winter and early Spring months.
Take care to dress appropriately for the
activity you are doing and be prepared for
the odd change in the weather, but most
importantly enjoy escaping the Summer
crowds and finding yourself in some magical
spots, often having them all to yourself!
– Rebekah Gee
Paddle to the majestically sereneWhenuakura
Island, explore the awesome network of local
mountain bike trails or join us for one of
our adventure rides.
Everything is at your doorstep with our extensive
hire fleet to create your unique adventure.
KIWI OWNED & OPERATED OFFERING
AWEALTH OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE.
Cycle, SUP & surf – it’s what we do.
Come & explore the
wonders of
Whangamata’s
Paradise Coast
700 PORT RD IN WHANGAMATA
07 865 8096
Over 25 years experience!
On Land or Sea – We’re Your Experts...
Pedal & Paddle