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Waipoua Kauri ForestNinety Mile BeachKauri CoastLying on the northwest shore, the Kauri Coast is aland of ancient kauri forests, gum-digging andlogging. The Waipoua Forest is the mostsignificant remnant of the once extensiveNorthland forests and is home to the oldestremaining kauri trees, one over 2,000 years oldand many with trunks several metres in diameter.Of great cultural importance to the Maori, theseforests are well worth exploring with a guide,while a trip to the highly interactive museum atMatakohe brings the region’s fascinating history tolife. At the northern end of the coast lies theserenely beautiful Hokianga Harbour, its turquoisewaters flanked by pristine white sand dunes.Waipoua Lodge, Kauri CoastSet on a ridge overlooking the impressiveWaipoua Forest, Waipoua Lodge is over 100years old and is steeped in history.Accommodation is in four self-contained cottageswhich have been converted from a woolshed, acalf pen and the property’s original stables andtack rooms. All the cottages open onto balconiesoverlooking the beautifully landscaped gardensand the native bush beyond. The bar and diningroom feature a pianola that provides musicalaccompaniment to the excellent food. A networkof bush walks lace the area and guided night walksoffer the chance to spot the elusive kiwi.Matakana farmers’ marketWaipoua Lodge, Kauri CoastFootprints WaipouaLocally owned and operated, these guided walkingtours provide a fascinating opportunity to learnabout the oldest and largest kauri trees in theworld, including ‘Te Matua Ngahere’, the Father ofthe Forest, and ‘Tane Mahuta’, the Lord of theForest. Maori guides bring their ancestralhomeland of Waipoua Forest to life through theirstories and songs. Several tours are availableduring the day, but our favourite is the ‘TwilightEncounter’. Rich with the sounds of evening, theforest feels ethereal as the silhouettes of the treeschange with the light.Hokianga Harbour, Kauri CoastMatakanaAn hour north of Auckland, near the bohemianvillage of Puhoi and the colonial town ofWarkworth, the Matakana area is fast becomingknown for its food, wine and thriving arts scene.There is a selection of small family-run winerieshere as well as sandy arcs of coastline washed byrolling Pacific surf. Matakana provides a perfectbreak on the drive between Auckland and theBay of Islands.Takatu Lodge & Vineyard,MatakanaMore than just a place to stay, a visit to TakatuLodge is an experience, allowing you theopportunity to sample life on a working vineyardwhile enjoying the highest standard of comfort andthe best cuisine. The lodge is contemporary instyle, but uses natural wood, marble and stone tocomplement its surroundings. Whole walls of glasscapture the stunning views and local artists’ worksadorn the main lodge. Your hosts are welltravelled and enjoy good food and wine, andguests are encouraged to indulge in a little winetasting. The four suites have fantastic views eithertowards the ocean or over the vineyard, and aredesigned for privacy, elegance and comfort.Takatu Lodge & Vineyard, Matakanawww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 17