Latesha R.'s
Best Pizza
- 12Power PizzaMatamataThese guys do fantastic, great-value pizzas in Matamata. So delicious, perfect crispy crusts and very generous with the toppings. Try the popular 4 Cs- Camembert, cranberry, cashews and chicken, (only $18) or invent your own. Another great thing about this place is that you can also order your pizza uncooked - so you can bake it yourself at home when you’re ready. Tip: Call and order ahead to avoid waiting.
- 27Luke's KitchenKuaotunuHow could I not include Luke’s Pizza on the Perfect Pizza list? As I’ve mentioned below, you’ll find here a selection of tasty pizzas, all made with local, seasonal produce. I recommend the Little Hippy - a tasty veggie combo with sun dried tomatoes and artichokes. All pizzas can be made gluten free and are baked in a traditional wood-fired oven. Prices start at $16.
- 32Dino's Pizza and TakeawaysWhitiangaWhether it’s for a meal out, or a comfy night in, visit this popular pizza joint and you’ll not be dissappointed. Very friendly accommodating staff, excellent pizza chef cooking up wonderful food in a lovely little restaurant. Gluten free options available, takeaway and delivery service.
- 44The Food DepartmentRaglanIt just keeps getting better. The pizza is still AMAZING. Authentic, Italian and delicious, you can get a whole one to share, (takeaway or dine in), or a big slice for $6. Yum. They’ve got lots of flavours, but I think my favourite is the brie and pumpkin. Made with fresh, local ingredients where possible, pop by on your way to or from the beach.
- 51On Fire RestaurantWhitiangaThis place is groovy. Order one of their yummy pizzas, sit back and enjoy the beachy atmosphere. Probably what makes these pizzas taste even better is the ambiance - expect laid-back vibes, live music, and cool, casual staff. Great summer restaurant.
Latesha R.'s
Best Date Spots
- 12Kiwi Balloon Co LtdMelvilleTreat your partner to an early hot air balloon ride. Sunrises are romantic, but watching one from the sky is next level. Kiwi Balloon Co. run morning trips over Hamilton and the Waikato. Float above a beautiful landscape, with bush, farmland and mountains surrounding. A dreamy experience with a hint of adventure - sure to heighten those romantic feelings.
- 22This stunning luxury eco retreat offers a ‘Night of Romance’ package, ideal for couples who just want to spend time together. Indulge in your own private spa, enjoy delicious food (a five course dinner, gourmet breakfast and a picnic lunch at a close secluded beach are included) and get away from all life’s distractions.
- 31Cambridge Repertory SocietyCambridgeThe Gaslight Theatre is a cozy local venue, that puts on a number of shows each year. You should look out for a performance to go to with your special someone. Get close at your own little table, order a bottle of wine and enjoy some local talent. Can also be good for a laugh!
- 41Falls RetreatWaikinoA gorgeous location for a romantic getaway. Hidden amongst tall trees and meandering streams in the Karangahake Gorge, Falls Retreat has a number of accommodation options and a fantastic bistro. Book a special romance package to receive a welcome hamper and candelit dinner for two. This would be a lovely treat to share with your partner.
- 55Chim Choo ReeHamilton CentralOne of my favourites, Chim Choo Ree serves top quality food. The trendy and laid-back atmosphere encourages conversation, great for those early days, whilst the food is both impressive and affordable. An all round great date night dinner option.
Latesha R.'s
Best For DIY
- 11An excellent discount building centre, family run with brilliant deals. Great for DIYers and builders alike with lots of products - timber, paint, bathrooms, plasterboard, glues, screws… everything you need! See their website for specials.
- 21This is the place to come if you’ve got a project on the go and you’re based in Raglan. Local, friendly staff can give you advice and info, whilst the varied stock offers a wide span of things you might need, including timber, cement and tools. Look out for deals, and ask to order if something’s not in stock.
- 31Rarefind Timbers NZ LtdHillcrestA big fan of the natural look, I love bench tops and tables made from big slabs and unique timber. Rarefind is the go-to place if you are looking for that feature piece. With on site turning and saw mill facilities, find or order exactly what you want.
- 41James & Turner LtdCoromandelJames & Turner isn’t a typical hardware store, although that’s what they claim to be. They sell a little of everything it seems. One of the oldest stores in Coromandel, they have a small selection of building supplies, paint and garden wares. Peruse for those important smaller items, glues, screws and nails that you need to keep your project moving. You’ll be surprised what you can find!
- 51Carters ThamesNewsteadAlthough Carters is a bigger company, (which means it has a huge products list), it still has that small business feel. Sign up for you ‘mates-rates’ card to get discounts on all kinds of things, from appliances to power tools. And ask for help - you’ll be pleasantly surprised how much they can.
Latesha R.'s
What to do on a Summer's Day
- 11Te Awa The Great NZ River RideHamilton CentralTe Awa will be a 70km cycle way that follows the mighty Waikato River - when it’s finished in 2015. This Summer you can have a preview of what’s to come, by riding on sections of the track through Hamilton, and around Cambridge and Lake Karapiro. Get the family or some mates together and test it out!
- 21Te Waihou WalkwayPutaruruThere’s nothing like going for a beautiful long walk on a warm summery day. If you’ve not been before, try the Te Waihou Walkway. This short 3 hour round trip meanders in and out of native bush, along the Waihou River and past the Blue Spring. Internationally recognised for its high clarity and turquoise colour, the water here is bottled and sold, and supplies Putaruru with no treatment necessary. Crystal clear, it feels like faires could live here!
- 31Cougar Mountain Bike ParkTokoroaKeen mountain biker? If not, summer is the best time to become one! The Cougar Park in Tokoroa has over 30km of marked forest trails. Entry is free, but become a member for a small fee to help with maintenance, improvements and get deeper into the sport. Races and special events are also held here. Tip: download a map from www.sportsground.co.nz/tokoroamtb
- 41Heards BayCoromandelA lot of the beaches in New Zealand aren’t safe for swimming. This one is. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing splash or sunbathe, looking out at to a collection of small islands. Close to Coromandel town, but far enough away from any fast action. Tip: Take an early morning or late evening dip for maximum tranquility and peace.
- 55Waihi BeachWaihi BeachI love how long and sweeping this beach feels. Gorgeous white forever sand stretching 9km. A safe beach for surfing and boogie boarding and perfect for a family day out. Tip: Take some blankets, maybe an umbrella or tent for shade and pack up a picnic. Enjoy the sunshine!
Latesha R.'s
Where to go for a long lunch
- 17Luke's KitchenKuaotunuI know I’ve shared my love for these guys before, but THIS is the place to come for a long Labour Weekend lunch. Super chilled, tasty food, wine and beer. Keep ordering pizzas, salads, and snacks as you need them and soak up the sun in the buzzy outdoor area. Just opposite there’s a grassy park and the beach for kids to play.
- 21Hot Waves CafeHot Water BeachFound in the bubbly holiday town of Hot Water Beach, this little licensed cafe has the perfect garden for a long lunch. There’s lots of space for the kids to run around, it’s close to the beach and partly shaded by native plant life. They have a range of delicious lunch options, with a good selection of vegetarian, local and organic produce. Very laid-back and perfect for a lazy Sunday. If the weather happens to be rainy, the inside area is also neat and cosy. Tip: Look out for their specials and live music sessions.
- 33Onyx Cafe And BarCambridgeOynx is a versatile restaurant, cafe and bar that can be suitable for all occasions. They’ve lots of menu options and a classic, busy atmosphere. A great place for a get-together with friends or family, to have a catch-up chat and toast the fast-approaching Summer!
- 43Rock-ItRaglanAnother one of my pre-mentioned favourites, Rock-It is a wonderful place to come for an elongated lunch. With a much more diverse and larger menu now, the kitchen’s offering all kinds of delicious treats, beers, wines and desserts. The garden and wide deck are the best spots to enjoy the sun in this surf town, with lots of space for kids and dogs to play.
- 57CullensHamilton CentralFor a more up-market style lunch, book a table at Cullens where they serve top quality food in a relaxed, modern environment. Expect extravagant flavours, unique combinations and fine-dining presentation, i.e. dashes and swirls of sauce and dressing, with curls of garnish and fancy finishes. It would be lovely to come here with a few friends, or family members to celebrate something special in style.
Latesha R.'s
Best campgrounds
- 12I love the location here- just a short walk to town where there’re plenty of shops and cafes, but right on the beach, so it’s super easy to go for a swim, fish, kayak or SUP. Close to a wicked playground and skatepark for the little ones, and nicely secluded by an inlet of water. Great facilities, awesome staff, heaps of fun!"
- 22A pretty little family run campervan park, roughly half way between Coromandel and Thames. Nestled back from the coast it’s cosy, quiet and a lovely place to stop for a night on a peninsula road trip. Very friendly and welcoming. Tip: Plan a pizza night as they have a proper pizza oven!
- 32Pirongia Forest ParkPirongiaA gorgeous park in the Waikato spanning from Mt Pirongia to Mt Karioi. Plan an overnight hike to the summit of Pirongia and tent there or book the DOC hut. Best on a clear day when you can see all the way out to Ruapehu and Taranaki! I love hiking- it’s a great way to get my dose of fresh air and nature!
- 42Kawhia Ocean BeachKawhiaKawhia Beach is pure, wild west coast. It’s long stretching, wind whipped black sands are the perfect place to stroll, walk out any worries and breathe in some really fresh sea air. It’s one of my favourite places to get lost in thought. Plus it’s a great place to camp as there is a really cool little camping ground that’s one of the most laid back in New Zealand. Tip: Come here at low tide a dig down to find natural hot springs and enjoy a private sunset spa.