Magnificent natural attractions are found in and around the quiet harbour-town of Kawhia, dotted with pastel-painted cottages and giant pohutukawa. Walking trails, glittering beaches, stunning views, and many an opportunity to catch your dinner make Kawhia an idyllic seaside stop.
Things to see and do
Between Waitomo and Kawhia, an easy-access track will take you underneath the magnificent Mangapohue natural bridge (a remnant of an ancient limestone cave system), into the Piripiri Caves to view 25-million-year-old fossilised oysters, and through bush to the breathtaking Marokopa Falls. Te Puia Springs: two hours either side of low tide, it’s possible to dig a hole and sit in the warm water – take a spade. Ocean Beach: the top of the dunes offer stunning views stretching out across the aquamarine Tasman Sea, south to Albatross Point, and north to Mt Karioi. County Council building: this century-old building displays the town’s history, when forestry and farming flourished, and sailing ships and weekly steamers plied the coast. Tangi te Korowhiti: Kawhia’s pohutukawa grove is known as the landing place of the great Tainui waka, which now rests on the hillside above Maketu Marae. Kawhia Wharf: join the locals casting lines from the wharf and you may just come home with dinner. New Year’s Day Regatta: this annual race sees Kawhia’s specifically-designed whaleboats go head to head.Places to eat and drink
The Kai Festival: in early February is celebration of Kawhia’s culinary riches, particularly those from the sea. Annie’s Café does a wonderful, monstrous whitebait fritter sandwich. Kawhia’s wharf-side fish shop can’t be beat for fresh fare from the sea. 
