Close to home

Matakana in the Sun

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After leaving Dargaville, I made my way back towards Matakana, where Fiona was driving up from Devonport to meet me at a new POP (Park Over Property) called Willow Park. The drive into Matakana was a test of patience—traffic from the Warkworth motorway turnoff to Matakana took over an hour. Apparently, that’s par for the course. Thankfully, the destination was well worth the effort.

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Fiona had already arrived by the time I got to Willow Park. After parking up, we sat down with a cuppa and started planning our next moves.

Willows Park

First on our list was the famous Sculptureum just around the corner. The Matakana markets were also in full swing, so of course, we decided to check those out too.

Looking back at Willows Park

Willow Park, located on Totaranui Road, is run by NZMCA member Gary Pallett. It’s situated on a gentle slope, but the 10 or so graveled sites are impressively level. The farm setting offers fantastic views, which you’ll see from the photos. There are showers available, though we stuck to using our own facilities.

Although the Sculptureum is within walking distance, we opted to drive down the hill. The place is massive, complete with a vineyard. The experience is split into four main sections, and they recommend allowing at least two hours to fully explore. There’s also a restaurant for lunch and plenty of parking.

We started in the indoor gallery, which was packed with fascinating and unusual art pieces. From there, we ventured into the Palm Garden, famous for its whimsical giant snails. The landscaping is immaculate, perfectly complementing the sculptures on display. (Check out the photos!)

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Fiona admiring a Pergoda
Amazing sculpture with Fiona.
The Snails

After a couple of hours in the sun, we retreated to the verandah for a much-needed coffee.

Across the road, the Matakana Country Park was buzzing with market activity. We moved the car to their carpark and wandered through the stalls for about an hour. Even near closing time, the place was still packed with people!

At the Markets

Before heading back to Willow Park, we stopped into Matakana itself to grab some supplies and have a quick look around. Unsurprisingly, it was still incredibly busy, so we didn’t linger too long.

It was a fantastic day out, with the Sculptureum being the highlight. The art and sculptures are absolutely stunning, and the entire experience is amazing. A great couple of nights away and not too far from home 🙂

Rafe’s tracker map to Matakana – Armada GPS
Northland

Stopping in at Dargaville

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At the top of the Kaipara Harbour, Dargaville is one of those magic little towns and with the river on two sides, the NZMCA park here is one of the best. The park is literally a hop, skip and a jump to the township.

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Park on the right bank, town on the left.

I first visited years ago, not long after the park opened, and it has remained a favourite ever since. What makes this park so unique are the beautiful old historic buildings on-site.  They were used to construct Shackleton’s boats for his Antarctic expeditions. It’s incredible that the NZMCA has been able to preserve and make use of them. The local NZMCA team has done a fantastic job restoring one of the buildings, even replacing the mezzanine floor that had seen better days. It’s looking amazing now!

The “Shackleton Buildings”
One of the Shackleton Sheds

Just over the bridge is the heart of Dargaville itself, an easy five-minute walk away.

Looking through the town, just 5 minutes walk away.

One of the highlights of this park is the seat overlooking the river at the far end of the property. Sitting there, gazing out at the water and the Dargaville Bridge in the distance, you can’t help but feel a sense of calm. It’s the perfect spot to zone out and soak it all in.

Looking back from the Magic Chair

As you walk back from this magic perch, you’ll pass a transformed area that used to be bush and trees but is now a stunning garden. It’s a delight to wander through, complete with a dinghy and a weather monitor adding quirky charm to the space.

Weather Monitor

The Garden!
Looking back to the parking

The Dargaville Museum, just a short drive up the road, is another must-see. It’s one of the best in the region, offering fascinating insights into local history. While you’re there, you’ll also find a conveniently located dump station.

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Great spot to Clear the head.
The local
From the road
Weather Monitor
The “Shackleton Buildings”

Dargaville is a fantastic little town, and it’s always a treat to come back and see how things have evolved. The upgrades to the NZMCA park are a bonus, but the town’s timeless charm remains its greatest draw.

Rafe’s tracker map to Dargaville – Armada GPS
Waikato

The Antique Capital and Kaiaua Adventure

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.

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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.

Rafe’s tracker map to Kaiaua – Armada GPS
Coromandel 2025, Waikato

The Lure of the Trains

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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.

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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.

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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
Coromandel 2025, Waikato

A hot day in the river

Hidden away just back from the Coroglen pub in Coromandel is a lovely little campground called River Glen.

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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.

A lovely little spot to stay.

Rafe’s tracker map to River Glen – Armada GPS
South Island 2017

Busy at Whitianga

After a fantastic couple of nights in Coromandel, we packed up and headed over the hill toward Whitianga. With New Year’s Eve just around the corner, we weren’t quite sure how busy things would get during the “silly season.”

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Hot and Sunny!
The Beach

Our first stop was at the main beach, where Fiona decided to stretch her legs with a walk along the promenade into town and back. After soaking in the views, we made our way to the NZMCA park.

The Whitianga NZMCA park when we arrived. By the next day it was chocka.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t as packed as we’d feared. The park was only about 30% full when we arrived, but by the next day—New Year’s Eve, it was full to the brim! The vibe was great, though, with lots of friendly folks around, and the bonus.  Being right next to the airfield meant we got to enjoy some incredible aerial displays from several warbirds flown in from Ardmore. It was absolutely fantastic!

Close to the airfield

On our second day, we wandered into town for lunch. Whitianga was buzzing with energy, but not overwhelming.

We spent some time in the shade under the umbrellas while having lunch on the left.

We enjoyed a delicious meal on the main street and took our time exploring the shops. The heat was in full swing, so we took regular breaks to sit in the shade and people-watch. It was one of those perfect summer afternoons.

On the way back, we popped into Woolworths for a few supplies before heading back to the truck. The rest of the day was pure bliss chilling out with some music, enjoying the lively atmosphere, and watching the world go by at the now very busy park

Rafe’s tracker map to Whitianga – Armada GPS
Coromandel 2025, Waikato

Magic Coromandel

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.

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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 shops
I 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.

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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.

Rafe’s tracker map to Coromandel – Armada GPS
Coromandel 24

Cathedral Cove is Open!

Tim and Annette, my younger brother (not so little anymore!) and sister-in-law, flew over from Melbourne for a well-deserved break. It has been a while since their last visit, so when Tim shared his packed itinerary, we were really pleased to be able to join them for two nights in Hahei.

Click on any Image to EnlargeInitially,  Cathedral Cove wasn’t on the agenda, but with Annette being an avid kayaker and the iconic spot just reopening after the cyclone damage, it quickly became a must-do.

Hahei Beach

They had booked one of the Beachfront Villas at the Hahei Resort, and the team there gave us a motorhome park conveniently almost right behind them. Perfect!

The Villa’s

We arrived on a sunny Thursday afternoon and wasted no time setting up the awning and settling into deck chairs for some shaded relaxation. Tim and Annette arrived later after visiting an old friend in Tauranga. Luckily, Fiona had packed one of our trusty Bargain Box meals, which turned into a lovely, shared dinner, complemented by a few G&Ts.

The next day was all about enjoying Hahei. We wandered into the shopping center for a leisurely lunch before Tim and Annette geared up for their kayak adventure to Cathedral Cove. After a short safety briefing, they were off. Fiona and I opted for a swim back at the beach, enjoying the calm, sunny weather.

Getting instructions.
Tim and Annette at Cathedral Cove.
Pic by Cathedral Kayaks

When Tim and Annette returned from their kayaking expedition, we gathered on their villa’s deck overlooking the beach. The tales of their paddling adventure were as lively as the backdrop was beautiful. The early breeze had settled, leaving behind a perfectly calm day on the water.

While enjoying the afternoon back on the deck, a familiar face appeared at the top of the stairs, Caroline with a friend!  It had been a few years since we last each other, and after a moment of mutual hesitation (the “do-I-know-you” look), and after another old friend Chris, arrived in a car to confirm the situation, we pieced it together 🙂

Tim, Fiona and Annette enjoying a morning coffee on the deck.

Chris and her late husband, Gary, were old boating and motorhome friends, and we had spent many holidays together. It was lovely to see Chris and Caroline again.

The Deck bar area.
The amazing bar and social area.

Hahei Holiday Park has always been a favorite of ours, and this visit didn’t disappoint. A new bar, restaurant, and beach club had opened in the campground’s heart, a fantastic addition. That evening, we headed over for burgers and chips, and wow, those burgers were incredible! Quite possibly the best we’ve ever had.

Annette, Me and Tim at the Bar.

We bumped into Caroline and Chris again at the bar, enjoying dinner with their group.

The Kayaks

After another evening together on their front deck, we set off the next morning back to Auckland. We only there for a couple of nights but it was a lot of fun. Nice to see some old friends too.

Rafe’s tracker map to Hahei – Armada GPS
Bay of Plenty

We’re off to Waihi Beach

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After weeks of family activities, baby sitting and catching up on my volunteer work restoring historic images at the Devonport Museum, it was time for a well-deserved getaway.

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Coming into the NZMCA park
Our little corner in the world at Waihi Beach

We hit the road ad made our way to the NZMCA park at Waihi Beach.

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Waihi Beach
The next door neighbour
Lovely scenic entranceway to the park.

We’ve had several memorable stays here, including covering the ceremonial opening of the NZMCA park, a fantastic occasion. This time, we arrived under a grey sky to a very quiet park, perfectly set up for us to unwind, watch a bit of TV, and enjoy doing very little.

Later in the afternoon, we had a nice surprise when Russell and Lorraine, whom we’d met at a Frankia Get Together in Coromandel, pulled into the park. It was great to catch up with them again.

Waihi Beach Shops

In the morning, we took a short drive down to the Waihi Beach shops for lunch at a cozy café and a browse through the shops. On the way back, we stopped at the beach for a quick look before returning to the NZMCA park.

Our original spot had been taken, so we parked further along beside Harry and Lorraine, full-timers in their Iveco-powered Diamond motorhome. I spent a pleasant afternoon swapping road stories with them both over a glass or two of wine.

Fiona on the beach

The next morning, we packed up and made our way back to Auckland, feeling recharged and grateful for the chance to connect with family and enjoy a couple of relaxing days by the beach.

Rafe’s tracker map to Waihi Beach – Armada GPS
Int'l Motorhomes, Northland

Tony and Mary’s new Baby Alpa

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Fiona and I first met Tony and Mary way back when we were playcenter parents together in Devonport, so it was very much small world stuff when I first discovered them in a Dethleffs Motorhome after they first got their Pulse a few years ago.

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Tony and Mary

The Alpas have really changed the standard with the Dethleffs usual format from a rear bed and front Lounge. From originally being rear lounge like the rentals we all see, now we’re back to that and these Alpas look really nice.

Nice looking Motorhome.

A slightly smaller Galley than the Grand Alpa, and a little less cabinetry in the lounge, it really suits the vehicle and takes nothing away from it.

Nice comfy lounge at the back with great visibility.

At just a smidge under 7.5 metres, they come with the new ZF 9 speed boxes and the 2.2hp fiat rated at 180HP. They come as standard with all the standard goodies including a lithium battery.

Galley

I remember when Chris Norman who used to work at Zion, dragged me sideways when I was out there for something else when the first one arrived, to check it out. There was great excitement, and it was a thing of beauty. Then it was only an option for the XLI but hold onto your hats, we’ve got a little smaller, so it’s become a standard sized Motorhome!  I’m sure it is going to be very popular.

Bathroom. Shower is opposite and BIG!

Having it tied to their doorknob at home now, it has been a bit of saga getting this one into New Zealand. Through no fault of anybody, it has been a combination of Covid, shipping issues and then the war in Ukraine where wiring looms in these are all made. The three years wait though I’m sure was well worth it.

The galley looking forward to the drop down beds and the Cab area.

I’ll let the images tell the story but the smile on their faces I think tells the story.

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.