When we first got our motorhome, Ray’s Rest quickly became one of our favorite freedom camping spots.
Click on any Image to Enlarge
Later in the day
It’s one of the few places in New Zealand where you can park right on the sand, looking out across the water with the Coromandel Peninsula offering some shelter.
Looking south down the beach
A few years ago, this spot like many others saw an influx of largely overseas tourists misusing freedom camping areas. It wasn’t uncommon to wake up with a budget rental van parked just inches from your doorway. Thankfully, updated self-containment and freedom camping laws have put an end to that, making places like Ray’s Rest much more enjoyable again.
A drone being setup for fishing off the beach
Two weeks earlier, I’d been knocked out by Covid, so Fiona suggested I take the motorhome out for some fresh air while she worked, and she’d join me later. Brilliant idea! With the sun shining, I stocked up at Countdown Supermarket and hit the road.
Looking North along the beach
When I arrived, there were plenty of parking spots, though they quickly filled as the day went on. It was great to catch up with several familiar faces, New Zealand really is a small place!
Nice easy pace
I spent the afternoon walking along the beach, soaking in the sunshine, and appreciating just how lucky we are to have places like this to stay. The weather was stunning, and an onshore breeze kept things comfortable—absolute perfection.
Rays Rest is famous for being a bird migration landing zone.
After two blissful days of sea air and sunshine, I packed up, already planning my next visit.
Rafe next to the sand.
Ray’s Rest is still magic, and I’ll definitely be back for more 🙂
Heading towards Kaiaua for our final night away, we decided to pass through another favorite spot—Paeroa, often hailed as Antique Heaven! With its abundance of vintage shops and quirky finds, it’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and hunt for treasures.
Click on any Image to Enlarge
We both enjoyed a wander through some of the charming antique stores. Fiona, of course, took a longer and more thorough look around while I kept my browsing short and sweet. After about an hour of soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere, we decided it was time to move on.
The drive to Kaiaua was pleasant, and upon arriving at the NZMCA park, we were relieved to find plenty of room. After settling in and opening the vents to let some air circulate through the truck, we couldn’t resist heading straight over to the pub next door.
The beer garden was the perfect spot on such a beautiful day. With a G&T in hand, we soaked up the relaxed atmosphere, enjoying the live music and the warm sunshine. Given my fair European complexion, the shade quickly became my best friend as we unwound in the early evening.
After a bit of a break back in the truck, accompanied by a much-needed cuppa, we made our way back to the pub for dinner. The meal was fantastic, the perfect way to end our day and, indeed, our holiday.
As we savored the evening, reflecting on our trip, it was clear that this was a fitting finale to a wonderful adventure. The combination of good food, great company, and superb weather made for an unforgettable last day.
Since I was a wee boy, I’ve always had a fascination with trains. That fascination only grew when it involved history—and now, motorhomes. There’s something about the old charm of locomotives and the stories they carry that pulls me in every time.
Click on any Image to Enlarge
Waihi Beach NZMCA park
After a relaxing stay at River Glen, we spent another night at a bustling Whitianga park and enjoyed a day exploring the town before heading off to the Waihi Beach NZMCA park. Unsurprisingly, it was also packed with holidaymakers making the most of the sunny weather.
Busy at Waihi Beach
One of the highlights of our stop at Waihi Beach was catching up with old family friends, Lee and Ian. We’ve known them for years, and it was wonderful to see them again. They were in great form, and it’s always a pleasure to reminisce and share stories over a cuppa. After a quiet, easy night at the park, we set off the next morning for something special, a visit to the Goldfields Railway Station in Waihi.
Getting settled at Goldfields.
The Goldfields train is a real gem. You can also stay in your Motorhome there with Power and Toilets. It runs regularly from Waihi Station to Waikino, with a stop at the charming Station Cafe. We timed our arrival perfectly, getting there around 10 a.m., just in time to catch the train for a scenic ride to Waikino.
Fiona in one of the old carriages.
This wasn’t our first time on this lovely little train. Not long ago, we brought our grandsons, Ayden and Liam, along for the ride, and they had an absolute blast. They waved at all the passing cars, thrilled every time they got a friendly toot in return. It’s the kind of simple joy that makes experiences like this so memorable.
Once we arrived at Waikino, we headed straight to the Station Cafe for lunch. The food was fantastic, and the atmosphere made it even better. Sitting there, soaking in the history of the place and watching the trains come and go, it felt like stepping back in time.
Click on the Gallery below for an enlarged Slideshow
The Taniwha on the side of the line.
Waikino Station
All aboard
Traffic below
After our leisurely lunch, it was time to hop back on the train for the return journey to Waihi Station. The ride back was just as enjoyable, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the rhythmic clatter of the train on the tracks.
In the Cafe
The Goldfields Railway folks have done a fantastic job over the years, not only maintaining the railway and its vintage charm but also streamlining the whole experience. From booking tickets to the overall park setup, everything was smooth and efficient. It’s great value for what you get—a slice of history, a scenic ride, and a memorable day out.
For me, this trip was a perfect blend of nostalgia and adventure. There’s something magical about trains that never seems to fade. Whether it’s the sound of the whistle, the steady chug of the engine, or the simple joy of waving at passing cars, it always brings out the kid in me. I’m already looking forward to our next railway adventure!
Rafe’s tracker map to Goldfield Railway – Armada GPS
Hidden away just back from the Coroglen pub in Coromandel is a lovely little campground called River Glen.
Click on any Image to Enlarge
And it wasn’t cold..
I first came here on my own a few years ago while Fiona was at work and although it was early in the winter, I virtually had the place to myself with only one or two others.
Lovely area.
From our visit with my brother Tim just before Christmas to Hahei, one of the locals stressed to me how it was absolute chaos anywhere around the beaches area in the Christmas / New Year period.
The weather was stinking hot. It was the day before New Years Eve, and I was ready for a swim in the river! And it was busy, but I wouldn’t describe it as chaotic 🙂
Tents, Tents and more Tents !
The lovely lady checking me in couldn’t have been more helpful even though they were clearly very busy. Due to it being so busy, there were no powered sites left, but we were happy to give the new Lithium batteries a run for their money. We were directed to a big area on the other side of the campground and told to pick a spot.
Towards the river
The concept sounds great but there was no parking areas painted or marked out for safe parking, which at such a busy time, I thought was a bit risky as some were a bit too close together for my liking but there were no dramas.
We ended up with some amazing Neighbours who were from Wellington, just over the hill from where I went to school as a grasshopper 🙂
After arriving, Fiona and I headed off down to the river where others were enjoying the fresh water too. I thought it would be cold, but it was amazingly refreshing but without the bite.
After chatting with some of the others there, we headed back to the truck for a drink and got on with making the tea.
Cabins
Gemma and Wayne currently run the campsite which was setup by Waynes parents some years ago. Wayne is a qualified builder and has built many of the buildings they have. It has a really rustic back packers feeling about it but also clean and tidy.
The morning after Christmas, we hit the road bound for Coromandel Town. Despite being Boxing Day, the traffic was surprisingly light, making the drive smooth and easy. We stopped at Kopu for some diesel before continuing up the coast toward our destination.
Click on any Image to Enlarge
The NZMCA park at Coromandel when we arrived.
Arriving late in the morning, we checked into the NZMCA park, got the jug boiling for a much-needed coffee, and opened the vents. With the air conditioning finally off, it was great to let some fresh air flow through, perfect for the warm day ahead.
Our favourite spot in the Town. The Star and Garter.
Hungry from the drive, we headed into town in search of lunch. Being a public holiday, many places were closed, but we lucked out with a fantastic little Turkish spot serving mouthwatering chicken wraps. A great find!
Neat shopsI never get sick of seeing this.
After lunch, we made our way to one of our favorite spots, the Star and Garter Bar for a refreshing drink. From there, we wandered down to the Four-Square supermarket for a few essentials and then strolled over to the marina to admire the boats.
The Marina
There’s something special about Coromandel. Even though we’ve visited many times before, it never loses its charm. With its unique atmosphere and welcoming vibe, it’s always a pleasure to spend a few days here.
A bit of traffic downtown but nothing to get concerned about 🙂A Mural on the side of one of the shops
Over the years, we’ve sampled several of the local cafés and bars, and they’ve all been top-notch. This visit was no exception.
Click on the Gallery below for an Enlarged Slideshow
Looking down the road towards the wharf.
A Mural on the side of one of the shops
The Marina
After a leisurely afternoon of exploring and soaking up the laid-back vibe, we returned to the truck to escape the heat and enjoy some well-earned chill time. Nothing beats relaxing in Coromandel.
We hadn’t long been out of bed on the Saturday morning when Fiona announced,” Let’s get out of town, what about Kaiaua”?
Click on any Image to Enlarge
The Bay View Hotel in Kaiaua
Kaiaua has become our easy bust out of the house destination being not far to drive with a great NZMCA park next door to a fantastic pub and the Fish and Chip shop from heaven 🙂
So, within a couple of hours, we were arriving in Kaiaua. Almost opposite us were full-timers, Kelly and Claire in their Autotrail Delaware. Small world stuff. It turns out that Kelly built a friend’s boat. Moored in the same place as the old family boat Rorqual.
We tootled over next door to the pub next door and there was an amazing band playing called Small stuffed Animals. they were amazing playing all the old favourites.
We also met Vicki and John who are just getting a Caravan ready to hit the road. Vicki grew up in Kaiaua.
I was told that there was a German Ompah band playing the next day and that explained why some of the staff were dressed in the appropriate costume, like the German beer festival. Lots of fun.
Click on the Gallery below to Enlarge
Manu about to deliver some food to a table.
We pretty much spent the rest of the day there and then got fish and chips for tea at the Fish and Chip shop. While we were there, we stumbled on some Liquorice Ice Cream. We last had this with Sambuca over it years ago in Coromandel and it was unbelievable. Well, we’ve found it, and it is made by Lewis Road Creamery… I feel a visit is imminent with the freezer on 🙂
Manu with some happy customers.
The next day, Fiona went for a walk, and I went to chat to the neighbours and later we found ourselves back at the pub where the Herman band was laying. Barman Manu was in his German gear making the most of it and it was a fun afternoon.
Later in the day we checked in to the Pub for tea. I had an unbelievable Pork Roast and Fiona had a Fish Pie… both amazing.
For years several friends of mine have been telling me how nice this place is, and I finally got to stay here. It is right on the Waikato River just north or Arapuni. It is also right on the Waikato River trail for biking and walking.
I arrived here in the morning and there was quite a bit of room. (Mid-week) There are some pretty flash loos here too, but they are clean long drops.
Its lovely just sitting there with the music on watching the Swans and Ducks and generally taking it all in.
Stunning
A nice spot given it is freedom camping and it just shows how spoilt we are in the Waikato region with the council providing parking like this.
There is always a feeling of excitement when you are driving down the hill to Mystery Creek for the Park and Stay at these shows. You never quite know what is coming next.
Click on any Image to enlargeI was very lucky to get a spot not far from the gate thanks to the efficient parking from the Counties parking team.
I arrived in the middle of the afternoon on the Thursday, and it seemed like most of those staying was there too. Apparently, they had 900 registered stayers and another 150 odd for power… a great turnout.
People queuing to get in on Friday Morning
On the Friday morning, I went in for my first look and the thing that struck me most was the number of Ozzie Caravan manufacturers here with their raised Caravans. They’re built like Tanks 🙂
Inside the Urban Caravan
Perfect for the rough Ozzie outback. I had a quick look at one of them from a Melbourne company called Urban. Apparently, they’re Tig welded which they emphasised as a selling point.
Click on the Gallery below to enlarge the Urban Caravan
Nicely appointed and they look bullet proof but for a medium sized Caravan, available at $189,000.
One of the first Liteweight caravans
So, from there I was off to see the old Cars and Caravans and with their Art Deco decorating they looked stunning. These guys put their heart and souls into these.
Click on the Gallery below to see the vintage Cars and Caravans
I was lucky enough a few years ago to catch up with an old mate from the Herald who I worked with at a Liteweight Caravans get together at Cambridge and it was fabulous. We also met some of the well know members of the family who built them too. See that here.
My next stop was one of the most popular Dethleffs at the Zion stand, the Grand Alpa which is a beast. This comes in at 855cm and is 5.4 Tons and was going as a show special for $341,000. There is also a smaller version of this available which possibly suits NZ roads being 748cm long.
Click on the Gallery below to enlarge the Grand Alpa
This the outside of the XLI as the Grand Alpa was jammed in but they look identical from the outside.
I really enjoyed catching up with some old friends on the Dethleffs stand, some that I caught up with later for a cold one as you do 🙂
The Team at the NZMCA standThe crew at Kiwi fuels
I popped over to the NZMCA stand and checked in there. Nice to see the happy faces there too.
The UCC stand
I also checked out the new Rockwood’s and they’re massive insides with all the slide outs. Very nice and nice seeing a smart bunk layout for the kids.
Click on the Gallery below to see the Rockwood 5the Wheeler.
In the Gallery below is a general roundup. I saw the new Weber Traveller Barbeques which look great. Apparently, they have a complete set of extra bits and bobs just for these new models.
Click on the Gallery below to enlarge ..
No 1 Reo NZMCA
The Weber Traveller
Trailite Caravan
The Galley area inside Trailite Caravan
Inside the Trailite Caravan
Looking through the Trailite Caravan
The bedroom – Trailite Caravan
It was off to the tented pavilions then. From floating sunglasses to Gin, it was all here.
Click on the Gallery below for the outside exhibits.
Outside in the Park and Stay, it was fun, and I bumped into quite a few people I knew. By the Saturday though, there were some big holes opening in the parking which was interesting. People getting in early and going.
Click on the Gallery below for lots of white Motorhomes
This was the first one I’ve been to where there was a Stay and Eat area too for those parked so that was fun. A great show and lots of friendly faces.
It’s cold and the weather isn’t that flash, but it was time to give Rafe a fright by getting on a highway or two.
Click on an Image to Enlarge.
Nigel no mates 🙂
My first destination was the Kaiaua NZMCA park and being a Wednesday afternoon, it was no real surprise to find there was only one other vehicle there, but we were joined by another Motorhome later in the day. It rained most of the day, but it was nice and warm and there were a few movie endings I wanted to see on Netflix to keep me going 🙂
Later I wandered over to the pub next door for a glass of wine and managed to catch the 2nd half of the NZ womans 7’s team winning a medal… fantastic.
Click on the Gallery below to Enlarge
Quiet in Kaiaua
One of the main streets in Thames
The Paeroa Pub
The main street in Paeroa
In the morning, it was still pretty gloomy, but I went for a bit of a walk around with the camera. It is very different here mid-week with unfavourable weather, that’s for certain. Here’s what it looked like a few months ago.
Free parking in ThamesA place to see in Thames
After packing up and stowing things for travel, I thought I’d head for Thames to check out a spot for next year’s Dethleffs Owners group. Finding accommodation for 40 plus vehicles that also takes Dogs that we haven’t been to, is not all that easy.
Our new venue for the get together next year.
After ringing ahead, I later met Kevin who showed me around out next venue which is perfect and an easy walk or bike to the shops. Its in the diary and we’re all ready steady go for early next year.
Free parking in Paeroa
Feeling pretty pleased with myself, I thought while I was out and about, I’d pop out to Paeroa which is only 20 k’s away and settled into a spot in the council provided freedom camping at the end of the main street. A great spot and for $5 I had power too for the heater… it was cold!
The Paeroa Pub
The next morning after a look around Paeroa, I headed back to Auckland stopping at Ngatea for Diesel and the Dump Station. A nice couple of nights away. A flashback to a recent trip to Paeroa.
Rafe’s tracker map to Thames and Paeroa – Armada GPS
There is something different about Raglan. It has an atmosphere all of its own and sitting on the balcony of the Pub in the main street with a glass of wine, even though it was freezing, I was just enjoying soaking it up. 🙂
Click on any Image to Enlarge
The Pub
We left Auckland well after everyone else on the Saturday and arrived in Whatawata just in time for lunch. As I parked Rafe out of the street, I was just getting out of the truck when I met Hilary and Lyn who we last saw at a Dethleffs do at Miranda. They live just around the corner from the Cafe and it was nice to see them again.
After a cup of tea with them and some nibbles, we set off towards Raglan.
Due to the economic downturn and a cold winter, Raglan have been doing a pay for two nights, get a third night for free so we jumped into that with both feet 🙂
The Three Dethleffs, Us, The Grand Alpa and the Pulse.
Arriving in Raglan, we found we were parked right next to one of the biggest Dethleffs on the market and the newest, one of the XLI Grand Alpas with the rear Lounge. Our Globe 4 being one of the oldest Dethleffs in NZ, it was a bit of the old with the young 🙂 There was also a Dethleffs Pulse on the other side. 🙂
That afternoon, we decided to head into the town to check things out.
Click on the Gallery below to enlarge
Action in the street
Mt view of the world from the pub balcony 🙂
A neat second hand shop on the way to the wharf.
The wharf with the Silos you can stay in.
Boats comng back in
Looking towards the Campground from the walkway from town.
Walkers on the beach
After lunch, Fiona had a look around the shops and I went and had a glass of Chardonnay on the balcony overlooking the street and watched the world go by.
Looking out from a Restaurant we had Lunch towards the Sea.
The next day we had lunch at a Restaurant overlooking the water and then walked around to the wharf. There is a neat fish and chip shop there along with a Leatherworks, a Pottery Gallery which we’ve bought some things from before and are very good.
Walking towards the wharf. The Silos peering over the top.The wharf with the Silos you can stay in.
The Museum is well setup there and has a souvenir shop inside and it is well worth a visit. Lots of interesting images of how Raglan used to be.
The beach behind the campground.Lovely on the beach despite the lack of sunshine.
A fantastic three days in a neat spot. The weather closed in a bit on the last day so my trip to the beach looking for some images of blue sky didn’t quite pan out.
Sun going down.
It was very pleasant down there sitting on a log for half an hour or so watching the sun go down.
Fiona & Chris, two empty nesters put their dreams of doing something different into reality… Now back in a house, they were living in their Motorhome, come along for the ride.
It’s one of the few places in New Zealand where you can park right on the sand, looking out across the water with the Coromandel Peninsula offering some shelter.
Two weeks earlier, I’d been knocked out by Covid, so Fiona suggested I take the motorhome out for some fresh air while she worked, and she’d join me later. Brilliant idea! With the sun shining, I stocked up at Countdown Supermarket and hit the road.
Bugger It, we are off - www.buggeritweareoff.com 
You must be logged in to post a comment.