A visit to Doubtless Bay in the North of New Zealand
Doubtless Bay is touted as the ‘ultimate absolute beachfront’ destination in Northland. It was autumn, and past swimming for me – but it is still a beautiful time to walk and explore, and the weather was crisp and clear.
Carrington Resort is one of NZ’s luxury destinations – now with the Heritage Hotel chain it is set on the magical Karikari Peninsula. Its lovely low level traditional buildings are clustered on a knoll overlooking the golf course. We were welcomed warmly by Marara in reception and soon found we could borrow a golf cart and drive out to the beach – which of course we did. We watched the sun set over the sea and walked along a gorgeous empty beach – almost tempted to a swim.
At dinner our Czech waiter brought us a fabulous meal of local ingredients, it was a treat to spend a night there – I felt wonderfully pampered. Next day we had lunch at the nearby Carrington Winery – on a long table outside overlooking the vista of sea and sky.
Next day we headed for the fishing village of Mangonui where we stayed at the Mangonui Hotel - $80 a double room with a million dollar view of the harbour and boats. The only thing you have to eat while in Mangonui is the world famous fish and chips – served in newspaper and eaten simply by the water. Breakfast was in The Waterfront Café where I had a great coffee, and potato hash with mushrooms in a creamy sauce.
Mangonui was a wonderful contrast to Carrington – both fantastic experiences that prove in New Zealand you do not have to spend a lot of money to have the best time – if you want style and luxury you can find that, but you can also find simple and magic hospitality on a budget.
On our way south we detoured via Matauri Bay where the wreck of the Rainbow Warrior was sunk. I had never been on that road – another fabulous NZ drive around quiet coastal settlements, with the magical Cavali Islands just off shore. I decided I want to come back here and camp and kayak for a week.
I live near the best beach in Northland – Uretiti Beach, but Doubtless Bay had more variety – long peninsulas, sheltered bays, off shore islands. Well worth the visit.
For Accommodation Options for Women Travellers in the Far North
and other parts of New Zealand and the world
www.womentravel.co.nz www.womentravel.info
In Doubtless Bay – Mill Bay Suites Motel
More Adventures with Rosemary Articles
- Almond Hill B&B - your base to explore the Barossa Valley - August 25th, 2009
- Prize Winning Café in Yankalilla….The Fleurieu Peninsula, Adelaide - August 25th, 2009
- Barossa Valley - Day 2 - more food and wine and Maggie Beer - August 24th, 2009
- Exploring the Barossa Valley – Wine, chocolate and cheese - August 23rd, 2009
- Back home and settling in… Waipu - January 31st, 2009
