ARCHAEOLOGICAL COASTAL TOUR

ARCHAEOLOGICAL COASTAL TOURS –

PUHEKE PA / KARIKARI BEACH

This full day, catered tour takes you to one of the quiet, hidden gems of Tai Tokerau (Northland). Definitely special and well off the beaten track and general tourist route! Leave the hustle and bustle that is summertime in the Bay of Islands behind and embark on an authentic New Zealand adventure.

Your guide for the day has spent 15 years lecturing NZ’s ecology, natural and social history as well as guiding and sharing some of the rare encounters only to be found in the Far North’s treasure trove of experiences.

With a bit of “something for everyone” this trip combines;

• A truly scenic drive along the North East coast layered with stories and tall tales
• An easy going coastal walk (approximately 45mins each way)
• An interpreted cultural/archaeological experience with the opportunity to view and taste local wild indigenous foods
• Time to relax on the beach, swim and experience some of New Zealand’s rare and endemic wildlife
• A delicious picnic lunch using the best locally available produce

TOUR OUTLINE

Your day will start with a drive up the coast from Paihia/Kerikeri/Whangaroa as arranged. There is much to see along the way, sit back and enjoy the scenery and stories. The mighty Puwheke Pa (Maori hill fort) to the stunning Karikari beach boasts a year round blissfully secluded coastline, bleached white silica sands and crystal clear pacific waters. Dolphins play in the surf and the quiet coastline and adjoining wetlands are home to numerous rare and endangered species of birds.

Once we arrive at the Pa you will hear some of the rich history of settlement and occupation of the area. The views up and down the coast from the promontory are picture perfect. After a Karakia (Maori blessing) we will begin our coastal walk to Karikari beach (the only public access to the site and rarely used). On the way we will have the chance to view native foods and learn about pre-European Polynesian horticulture and botanical uses. Once we arrive at Karikari you will have time to enjoy the endless stretch of deserted white sands, take a dip in the clear waters and dig for Tuatua (sand clams) if the tide is low.

After a picnic lunch which includes both European and collected native delicacies it’s time for an archaeological experience viewing the Pa’s ancient cooking sites. Here you will learn about middens and how they tell us stories of Maori life, hunting and gathering, tool making and the changes to the environment as Polynesian populations grew and spread. We will take only memories and leave only footprints, showing the utmost respect for the wairua (spirit) and mauri (life-force) of this beautiful area. You will leave with a new understanding of pre-European life on this far lying Pacific paradise, sand in your toes and a belly full of goodness.

Ka pai ehoa, it’s all good my friend!