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~ Welcome to the hidden
beauty
that is Opoutere, on the Coromandel Peninsula, in New Zealand ~
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OPOUTERE BEACH |
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IMAGE #5636 |
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Opoutere Surf
Beach
The last great undeveloped white sand surf beach on the Coromandel
Peninsula accessible to the public. Opoutere beach is protected
from development by a forested reserve running almost its entire 5km
length. Exceptionally clear water for swimming, surfing and
surfcasting, safest for children at low tide.
Wharekawa Harbour & Wildlife Refuge
At the southern end of Opoutere Beach lies the narrow entrance to the
Wharekawa Harbour which is dominated by a spectacular sand spit.
The spit is a breeding ground for several endangered species of sea
birds including the "New Zealand Dotterel" and "Variable
Oystercatcher". DOC Ranger on duty at refuge from November
through to February during breeding season.
Bushwalks
In addition to the harbour and reserve walks there are easy walks
along the beach to Ohui rock pools at the northern end of the beach
and into the state forest to visit the historic Phoenix goldmine.
For the more adventurous a good track winds up Maungaruawahine Pa hill
through native bush from Opoutere Road to the lookout vantage point on
the top. Unusual stone ramparts that formed part of the Maori
fortifications can still be seen in some places near the summit.
The view across the harbour to the site of the sister Pa on
Ruahiwihiwi point and the sand spit refuge is reward indeed for the
climb
Fishing
Surfcasting: Opoutere Beach and harbour mouth.
Skindiving: Around Hikunui Island and south coastline to
Pokohino.
Shellfishing: Plentiful cockles and pipis in the harbour and
tuatua in the surf.
Getting to Opoutere
Opoutere village is located some 3.5km from the turnoff on S.H.25
halfway between Whangamata and Hikuai. A Youth Hostel and public
car park for beach access are another 1km further on around the side
of the Wharekawa Harbour.
These images are available for purchase, framed or unframed, email
bart@thesilverfern.co.nz
for more information. |
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OPOUTERE DOTTEREL
SANCTUARY |
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IMAGE #5766 |
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OPOUTERE BEACH |
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IMAGE #5647 |
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BARTLEY INTERNET and GRAPHICS
706 Port Road, Whangamata
Phone / Fax (+64) 07 865 8832
http://www.big.net.nz
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