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.