Tairua

Tairua is situated 51km from Thames across State Highway 25a which is fully sealed and crosses the Kirikiri Saddle (424m). Of special interest is the walking track which starts at the saddle and leads to the summit of Mt. Kaitarakihi. A fairly hard three hours each way but which affords magnificent views. A branch walk to the Devcich Kauri is marked which would add a further hour to the main walk. The volcanic peak, Paku, and off shore views of the jagged Aldermen Islands are the natural focal points of the Tairua area. Large areas south of the river, between Pauanui and Wharekawa Harbour (Opoutere), are dominated by exotic forests. North of Tairua is the rugged coastal area of Sailors Grave - an area for a fine half day coastal work. Inland, the Tairua River runs to the sea from its source in the Coromandel Range, snaking through historic Broken Hills on its journey. Accommodation includes motels and camping grounds, and an Hotel at the southern edge of the town provides both accommodation and dining. Tairua is well endowed with sporting facilities, with a golf course, playing fields, outdoor and all weather bowling greens and tennis courts. Safe anchorage is available in the harbour, and there are many swimming spots along the harbour shore, or for the keen surfers the ocean beach where first class surfing can be experienced. Diving in and around the many reefs and islands give variety and sport in the clear waters. Tramping in the area can uncover relics of the goldmining era and kauri dams of the timber boom. Forests provide flora and fauna in abundance, intermixed with waterfalls and streams, panoramic views, stretching for approximately 80,000 hectares. Trout can be found in the upper reaches of the Tairua River and gemstone hunting in stream beds reveals jasper and other stones.