Pitch perfect at Anaura Bay

Yesterday we pitched up at what might be the most beautiful campsite we’ve ever had the pleasure of camping at. Put simply it is pitch perfect. Anaura Bay has knocked Maraehako Camping Ground of it’s short lived perch, and is close to perfect in our camping criteria.

It has big (not that Olive and us take up a lot of space), flat, grassy sites right beside a beautiful bay of golden sandy, deserted beach with twinkling seas safe for swimming. And a friendly, welcoming host, Victor, who on our arrival very kindly donated wine to our cause as he witnessed our first hill defeat!

Getting there

The final approach to Anaura Bay is a lovely rolling road off State Highway 35 for about 5kms. Then all of a sudden a very short, sharp, steep section rises to the crest of the hill before plummeting straight down two kilometres to the bay below. Those last hundred or so metres of the rise was too much for both of us, and with the past two long days of riding taking their toll, we had to get off and push.

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Campsite facilities

The campsite has a great kitchen set up with indoor and outdoor tables, and a huge lounge with views across the bay to Motuoroi Island. A little shop sells ice cream and chocolate (essentials). There are fantastic hot showers which was such a welcome relief after the dribble I had yesterday at Tokomaru Bay. There is half decent Wi-fi allowing us to download our photos for the first time since leaving Auckland. The cost is NZ$40 per night.

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Perhaps the only thing missing for us is a barbecue or fire pit that we could cook outside on, and the ability to buy more supplies. Oh and if we’re being picky maybe throw a cocktail bar in for good measure!

We might never leave, not just because it is bliss, but because the road out is the 2km long, steep, straight up climb!

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