New Zealand Coast: Hahei Beach

As a follow-up to last week’s post about Cathedral Cove, here is a post about another beach to enjoy at that same location. From the Cathedral Cove car park, the path splits off to the right or the left, both heading down little hiking paths that lead to various beaches. The left will take you … Continue reading

New Zealand Coast: Cathedral Cove

On the eastern coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, about halfway up, is place called Mercury Bay. Before you get to Mercury Bay, you’ll pass Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, also known as Cathedral Cove. This is easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been, though in New Zealand, it’s pretty easy to say that … Continue reading

New Zealand Coast: New Chums Beach

Now that fall has come to New Zealand, and I’ve had a chance to settle into Christchurch, I’m dreaming of my summer spent visiting North Island beaches. It’s the perfect time to continue my series of beach blog posts while the rain falls outside my hostel window. First up: New Chums Beach! First, let me … Continue reading

New Zealand Coast: Otama Beach

  Another beautiful beach that is usually empty of people is Otama Beach. Past Kuaotunu Beach and Luke’s Kitchen, drive up a gravel road that twists and turns its way up and down a mountain. It’s worth it for the seclusion of this delicate little beach. One side stretches out for a nice walk with … Continue reading

New Zealand Coast: Kuaotunu Beach + Luke’s Kitchen

During the six weeks I spent in the Coromandel Peninsula, a trip to Kuaotunu Beach and Luke’s Kitchen became a weekly tradition. About a 30 to 45 minute drive from Coromandel Town to the other side of the peninsula, up a typical New Zealand gravelly, twisty, mountain road (State Highway 25), there’s an impressive view … Continue reading

Six Weeks in Coromandel Town

After Simpsons Beach, I made my way to Coromandel Town, where I had my first WWOOFing gig set up. WWOOFing, for those not in the know, stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farmers or Willing Workers on Organic Farms. In my case, because, to be honest, I’m not much for farm work, I was … Continue reading

Moving to New Zealand, Step 2: The BCVs of Moving Abroad

As anyone who’s ever left their house for any reason will tell you, it’s a little more complicated than putting on a pair of shoes, picking up your bag, and walking out the door. If you’re a shut-in, sorry for taunting you. When you’re moving away from the place you called home, it’s an even … Continue reading