Top Places to visit in Raglan, New Zealand
Raglan
I used to live in Hamilton, New Zealand for 10 years so was lucky enough to visit Raglan on a regular basis. I have many fond memories there and some great friends. I thought that Raglan was more than worthy of its own lens. If you plan on visiting the North Island of New Zealand in the future, be sure to check out Raglan. Raglan is an amazing place to be, there are loads of free things to do, the fishing is great and the surfing is some of the best in the world.
If you are looking for Accommodation in Raglan, my friend Barry runs a little Bed and Breakfast which overlooks the Raglan Harbor, our whole family really enjoyed staying there the last time we visited. Tell him that Dan sent you!
I have decided to put a list of all the must-see places in Raglan so when you visit, be sure to print this lens and use it as a reference guide.
Enjoy!
Image Credit: Daniel McCarthy
Manu Bay - The Ultimate Surfing Destination
You might recognize Manu bay from a movie called Endless Summer directed by Bruce Brown, it's a movie in which 2 surfers follow the summer around the world to surf the waves in various countries, one of them being Manu Bay in New Zealand. Known as "The Point" by the locals, Manu Bay has a variety of exciting activities available ranging from surfing to trekking.
Manu Bay is the ultimate surfing destination, with perfect waves that will take you up to 2km (1.24 miles) at a time and can last a little over 10 minutes. All of the world's top surfers have been to Manu bay and most place it in their top 10 favourite surfing destinations.
Fishing is also excellent in and around Manu Bay, fish off the rocks or even hire a boat and use the boat ramp at the northern end of the reserve for direct access to the Tasman Sea where you'll catch a massive range of fish including Snapper, Kahawai and even gamefish like Marlin.
There's also the Bryant reserve walk to Ngarunui Beach with beautiful Nikau Palms and native bush to admire on the way (takes about 20 minutes each way). You'll also be able to visit the famous "Tattooed Rocks" which feature scroll like patterns and swirls, carved into the rocks.
Busses take groups of people from Hamilton in the summer and there are shuttles and taxis from the main town centre of Raglan that run on most days. Make sure you give the Raglan information centre a call before you plan your day though, they usually don't run the service in bad weather.
If you are going to be in the Waikato region then make sure you add Raglan to your list of things to do, and in particular, Manu Bay.
[Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons]
Have you been to Raglan before?
Journey's End Bed and Breakfast
If you want real Kiwi hospitality, a comfortable bed, tranquil surroundings and a mindblowing view then Journey's End Bed and Breakfast will do all of that and more! I have stayed at Journey's End with my family and Barry was the best host I've had for a very long time (the food was delicious as well!)
Here's some of what you'll get
Beautiful harbour views
Convenient walking distance to Raglan township
Shops and restaurants nearby
Wharf for charter fishing and sightseeing
Two Queen Double Bedrooms with separate Ensuites
Wireless Internet
Guest Kitchenette & Lounge
Separate Bench High Refrigerators
Beautiful lounge opening onto private deck
Telephone
Television/DVD
Selection of Original cast DVD Movies for in house use.
Courtesy pick up if required
Boat ramp at edge of section
To find out more, go to the Journey's End Website.
Te Kopua BMX Track
If you've brought your BMX bike along to Raglan, you'll be pleased to know that the locals have recently built a BMX track.
The Te Kopua BMX Track was built by local residents of Raglan in 2012 and is just one of many recreational activities available in the Te Kopua area. The track is 400m long and is suited to all skill levels. Also available in the area is a Skateboard Bowl and the Marine Parade.
Do you surf?
Mountain Biking in Raglan
What better way to take in the sights and sounds of Raglan than by bike? Imagine yourself gliding through lush green bush with a view of the pristine blue ocean in the background, the wind in your hair and the fresh smell of the ocean.... in your nose? :P Mountain Bikes and Road Bikes can be hired from Bike2Bay and also offers other services like Bike Repair. If you're in Raglan for a while, Evolution Cycles in Hamilton offer free shipping New Zealand wide on all products. They are the only bike store in New Zealand who does so.
Here's a free map that you can download which shows some excellent bike routes around Raglan.
Or head off road and explore Raglan’s new mountain bike trails. Accessible from Maungatawhiri Road, Opotoru Road (over the causeway) and Bensemen Road.