Maraetotara Falls
Less than 15 minutes south of Havelock North, the clear pool beneath Maraetotara Falls is a haven for swimmers. The riverside walking trail — Maraetotara Historic Walk — takes you down wooden stairs and along a tree-lined riverside path until you reach the lush, fern-peppered cascade around 10 minutes in. Look out for birdlife including kererū amid the trees, and don’t forget a towel if you’re planning on taking a dip.
Te Mata Park
At 1300 feet high, Te Mata is the tallest point in the area. It offers 360-degree views of the wine-growing region, deep valleys, and sprawling wetlands that stretch to the sea. The park is run by the community and offers hiking and biking trails. However, you do not actually have to hike up Te Mata Peak to experience it, as a road leads to the top, and you’ll even find a restaurant up there.
Waimārama Beach
The half-hour drive southeast is rewarded with excellent surf that laps the swathe of sand protected by Kuku rocks. Despite shallow waters, you’ll need to be wary of rip tides — the beach is patrolled by lifeguards between December and late March. Fishing is a popular pastime here, and you won’t have to venture far from land to catch crayfish and flounder.