'''Waima Valley''' is a series of little settlements in the Hokianga.
Get in
'''From East'''
You get into the Waima Valley coming from Kaikohe driving west on State Highway 12 (SH 12). You arrive at the first settlement '''Taheke''' after 18 km. From there the valley stretches over 17 km to the turn off on SH 12 to Rawene.
'''From West'''
Leaving from Opononi you reach the turn off to Rawene after 17 km. Keep on SH12 and the Waima Valley starts after passing over the first hill.
'''From North'''
Coming from Ahipara or Kaitaia you drive South on SH 1, 67 km from Kaitaia to reach the turn off in '''Rangiahau''' which is just a junction. Follow the signs to Horeke and continue over the road to Taheke.
Get around
There is no public transport in the Waima valley, you need your own set of wheels.
See
Waima Lodge Guesthouse is located beside State Highway 12 on your left, look out for two huge phoenix palms as you drive eastward across the valley. The Tuhirangi Marae and Waima School, which are directly opposite Waima lodge, are nestled at the base of the sacred, native forest covered slopes of the Waima Ranges. This ancient rainforest covers the entire range of high country between Waima and the Waipoua forest through which you have traveled. These mountains are the highest point of Northland at 780 meters and they dominate the scene as you enter the Waima river valley. The forest park is accessible through a series of tramping tracks suitable for experienced trampers with a good level of fitness and experience. The great attraction of this region is the unique flora & fauna with plants such as the Waima Coprosma, which have only recently been discovered, and rare native birds such as the Kokako and Brown Kiwi.
The Waima & Waipoua forest is the last untouched remnant of the great forest that once covered the entire country north of Auckland!
Home to a subtribe of the Ngapuhi who call themselves Mahurehure, the people of Waima have occupied the fertile Waima river valley since its discovery by Kupe the great Polynesian navigator over one thousand, two hundred years ago.
Do
Wairere Boulders.
Among the excellent diversity of activities and attractions in close proximity to Waima Lodge are the Wairere boulders, a 20 minute drive deep in the heart of the Hokianga head waters. Wairere boulders feature breathtaking geological features in a canyon of giant basalt boulders. The paths through this natural phenomenon are well maintained and are suitable for all ages and levels of fitness with a new delight for the senses around every corner. Entry is by honesty box for a fee of $10.00 which goes toward the upkeep of this extraordinary Hokianga treasure.
Waima Lodge Heritage Garden is beautifully planted with an astonishing variety of subtropical plants, fruit and nut trees. The beautiful Waima River flows through the property and features a safe swimming hole. There is a unique guided river walk that takes you high into the Waima Forest, historic, secluded, magnificent. Enquire at Waima Lodge info@waimalodge.co.nz
Buy
One of Harmen's excellent works of art (original or quality print), commission a portrait, learn to paint, draw and sculpt.
Visit the Outpost at Rawene 16 km. west of Waima Lodge. The Outpost is the starting point for the "Heart Trail". Lise Strathdee's wonderful gallery features quality works of art, craft and clothing for the discerning buyer looking for something special from this special part of New Zealand.
Eat
Julie's brilliant meals, Julie Holton of Waima Lodge is a fantastic chef. Beg for the mushroom soup and apple crumble.
All meals are lovingly prepared from fresh , high quality, organic produce from the garden & local growers.
Goldfish Corner store Cnr S.H. 12 and Waima Valley Road. Heather and Daniel provide very good take away meals, and the usual array of good counter foods and fresh real coffee
Drink
Waima Lodge serves a selection of High quality local Northland wines available to guests to accompany Julies excellent meals.
The Taheke Tavern situated 6 km. to the east of Waima Lodge on S.H. 12. A classic New Zealand pub built originally in the days of the Gum industry in the 1880's
Sleep
Waima Lodge. ntimate Luxury Boutique Lodge
" address="2465 S/H12, Waima, Hokianga, New Zealand" directions="In the middle of the settlement of Waima, North side of the Road" phone="+64 (0)9 405 3808" email="kaurispring@xtra.co.nz" fax="" checkin="" checkout="" price="$ NZ 340 per night for two Summer ($NZ 220 Winter)
(includes full breakfast for couple)
$NZ 190 per night - per single includes full breakfast" url="http://www.waimalodge.co.nz/"></sleep>
Get out
Drive to all of Northland's famous scenic attractions from Waima Lodge's central location. All of Northland is accessible within 2 hours drive of Waima Lodge. Tane Mahuta, Hokianga Harbour, North Cape, Bay of Islands, Kerikeri, etc.