Tag Archives: leigh hopper

The Beauty of Whitianga Waterways

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We decided to make the 5.5hr drive to Whitianga to visit our friends Leigh and Linda.  They had generously invited us down for the weekend.  Matt and I arrived after lunch and Leigh immediately took us on a drive through the town of Whitianga.  It is a lovely town with two large markets, several supply companies (marine, plumbing, hardware) and access to the waterways and beaches at every corner.  I can see why Leigh picked this location to develop the Whitianga Waterways.

Later in the afternoon, around sunset, we took the duffy out to explore of the Whitianga Waterway canals.  We packed some snacks and cocktails and enjoyed a leisurely stroll through each canal.  It was simply lovely and frankly the best way to end the day on the water seeing the potential of this fabulous development.

You know Leigh told me that the retirement community, which is under construction, will have restaurants, stores, and a full medical facility.  In addition to the standard amenities like the custom barge dedicated for residents.  And you only have to be 55 to be eligible – who knew?  Matt and I could buy in today!

Helo Ride

The next day Leigh took us out for an aerial view of Whitianga, the coast line, and several of the neighboring islands including Mercury island.  Leigh has to take off and land on this very small trailer (I’d say it is smaller than 2m x 2m) and I’m telling you it takes great skill, courage, and expertise to do so.  I was absolutely amazed at how easy he made it look!

He is such a talented and controlled pilot that he instantly puts us at ease.

The day started a little rainy and cloudy, but it soon cleared up. 

We ran along the Whitianga coastline and saw the town from above.

We even found a few anchorages that we need to check out in Sugar Shack.

Lots of little beautiful islands all around Whitianga.

The recent cyclone brought a lot of extra water that was still running off creating dozens of waterfalls.

And Leigh showed off these two stunning Kauri trees.  Not sure how they survived the demolition of the kauri trees, but thank God they did.  Estimated to be 500-600 years old, young in Kauri life.

Boat Tour

The next day we all went out for a Whitianga coastline tour in Moon Shadow.  We passed by the famous Cathedral Beach which was very popular on this bright and sunny day.  Made famous by the cave that goes all the way through (bottom image).

Leigh found a rather large cave made popular by the tourist boats.  When we arrived, there was a small power boat inside showing off the cave’s interior beauty.  After he departed, Leigh nosed his beautiful yacht into the opening and kept going!  Surprises never cease!  He expertly maneuvered his boat into the cave.  I am not sure how he did it without touching his outriggers or any part of the boat, but he did!

It certainly was hard to leave this beautiful town.  We hope to be back to visit the wonders of Whitianga!  But we had to get back to Sugar Shack.  Be sure to check out our next blog post as we visit the Lost Springs and get stuck behind a double 36-wheeler who got stuck on a tree!

Events from this blog occurred in mid-January 2023.  Our blog posts run 6-8 weeks behind actual events. Matt and I spend months finding and fixing leaks all over the boat in our last blog.

Marsden Cove Fly Over

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We take a short trip to Marsden Cove to meet with a friend whom we met in Fiji. Linda and Leigh Hopper own a magnificent power yacht named Moon Shadow and we ran into them many times while in Musket Cove.  They actually live in Whitanga which is about 5 hours from Whangarei. 

They were kind enough to invite us to their home for the holidays but our boat was in complete disarray with missing windows, a disassembled engine and a broken windlass.  So, we had to pass. But we did want to see them so we all decided to meet in Marsden Cove.

Leigh’s company, Hopper Developments, developed the entire property and has intimate knowledge of everything Marsden!  We met for a lovely lunch and then he drove us around the marina, yard, and residential property.  He showed us the amazing lock they built which happens to be the largest residential lock in the southern hemisphere coming in at a whopping $5 million to build.

His company plans to build a retirement community and several apartment buildings to finish up the area.

Did he say helicopter?

Before we wrapped up the day he asked if we would like to see the grounds from the sky.  Let me think about that, “um hell ya!”  He arrived by helicopter and took us for a quick 15-minute bird’s eye view of the area.

Leigh is an expert pilot and easily navigated the airways with precision.  What a spectacular opportunity to see this beautiful area from the sky!

We flew along the interior where he pointed out new business opportunities for his company.

And then we flew along the stunning coast.

He then took us for a 360 where he actually flew the helicopter upside down!  I wish I had my video going, but by the time I realized I was upside down I was too late and giggling because I was upside down!

We ended the tour flying over a few anchorages.

What an unexpected joy!  Leigh is a true gem and so very generous with his time and company.  We hope to spend more time with he and Linda soon – so stay tuned!

Events from this blog occurred in early December 2022.  Our blog posts run 6-8 weeks behind actual events.  Did you read about our challenges replacing our windows?