The Karangahake Gorge connects Paeroa to Waihi and has wonderful walkways beside the river and attractions including relics of the old Mining days, waterfalls, tunnel, a Winery, Train rides and additional Narrow guage rail. Other bays, protected from the sea, lie within the harbour making for a wonderful recreational area. Matakana island forms a barrier between the sea and Tauranga harbour making over 40km of protected waters. At the Tauranga end of the harbour is another inlet from the sea at Mount Manganui. Boaties should take note that there is a swift current between tides up to 5 knots at these entrances.
Tauranga entrance is deep-dredged for shipping.
This was due to the old mine not having been back-filled with suitable material. Following independent studies and recommendations, that strip of road will remain closed and the district council is shifting the nearby retirement flats to other locations within the town. Though the risks may be low, it is better to be safe than sorry.