July 2015

Landy fixed, 1 week house sitting completed and back to the Coromandel to check out some of the Thames/Coromandel councils new designated freedom camping spots.
It was about this time last year when we visited the Coromandel last. To say the least freedom camping on the Coromandel was very disappointing then with limited spots, restricted 1 night parking and that ridiculous 7:30am curfew. But we weren't to be disappointed this time we found some great spots, were allowed to stop 2 consecutive nights and didn't have to move on until 9:00am.
It really made our trip up to Port Jackson and the tip of the peninsula so much pleasanter with a choice of different places to stop on the way up and down. In fact if we'd known the experience was going to be this good we would have planned to stay a bit longer but unfortunately we couldn't, too many places to go and people to see. Never mind though there is always next time.

Well done to the NZMCA for fighting our corner and thumbs up to the Coromandel for coming to the party.

Coromandel Walkway

Fletcher Bay to Stony Bay, approx 20 kms return (7hrs).

Not as daunting as it sounds. It only took us 2hrs there and 2hrs15 back. Plus no aching legs the next day.

The track is relatively flat and well formed most of the way. Just one steep bit really up and down to Poley Bay. Oh and it was pretty muddy crossing the farm land at the start of the track but then again it is the middle of winter.

It goes without saying this is a 5 star walk with DOC campsites at either end of the track but it always amazes me why there aren't more motorhomes here at this time of the year. I know the roads are a bit narrow, but at least they are empty. Last years slips have all been removed and the bridges all fixed. The weather well, it can be quite gorgeous and I probably shouldn't be advertising this but for those of you who need it both Port Jackson and Waikawau Bay have powered sites.

So if you haven't ventured this way for a while dig out your DOC pass, check out some of the new Coromandel designated freedom camping sites on the way up, stock up at the iconic Colville store and make your stay a long, happy one.

Everywhere and nowhere, baby

You're everywhere and nowhere baby,

that's where you're at

Going down a bumpy hillside, in your hippy hat

Flying across the country, and getting fat

Saying everything is groovy, when your tires are flat

And it's high ho silver lining, and away you go now baby

I see your sun is shining

But I won't make a fuss, though it's obvious


And don't forget to visit the Coromandel,
no matter what they say
There are plenty of places to stay, freedom camping spots, amazing DOCs and some lovely POPs

Lots of lovely people who've been missing you, while you've been fighting with the council and boycotting their stops

So it's high ho silver lining, and away you go
now baby
I see your sun is shining
But I won't make a fuss, though it's obvious