EDITORIAL: Paradise in HB is called Waimarama

When it comes to things I love about Hawke's Bay, Waimarama comes close to the top.
Summer or winter, visiting the beachside town provides instant release from normal every-day life.
The drive, whichever way you go, provides stunning scenery _ Te Mata Peak and Craggy Range, or the classic drive or ride along Tukituki Rd.
And from the road the first sight of the ocean and Bare Island is an image of rare magnificence.
Over recent years ``the front row'' and much more of the township has been developed into prime real estate. But there is still a beach flavour to many of the structures. There are even sections that have yet to be built on, which house happy campers throughout the summer.
Being in the fortunate situation of having a father-in-law living at Waimarama, I, and my family, have a haven on a hot, windy day or a spot to catch the winter sun _ not to mention the chance to sample whitebait fritters, the little creatures taken from the stream at the back of his house. But there is so much more:
* A beautiful patrolled beach for swimming, sand to walk or quad bike on.
* A chance to tire out the children, who love the freedom of beach life and the flying fox at the playground. Not to mention the dog.
* There is the opportunity to go dream-shopping for real estate one would love to own _ one day.
* A visit to the shop for ice-cream or fish and chips is a must.
* And JARKs cafe is at the ready for anyone short of a ``cold one'' or desiring a good meal.
Not so long ago I watched the Kiwi classic movie Goodbye Pork Pie in the local hall.
Its director, Geoff Murphy, a famed resident, was on hand to answer questions. He had even arranged for the original yellow Mini to be there.
Not far away one of his old mates, Bruno Lawrence, who had a delightful cameo in that movie, rests in the local cemetery.
Despite its many charms, Waimarama is still something of a well-kept secret. Many from outside Hawke's Bay, whom I have met, had no knowledge that our beaches were so good. Many from within Hawke's Bay don't like the drive.
But many who leave the Bay hold Waimarama close to their heart as one of the reminders of what they loved about their home province.
Tomorrow a huge crowd will head there for the More FM Waimarama Beach Day. It should be great. Hopefully the environment will be left as it was found. Waimarama should remain a place to enjoy for generations to come. It is an icon of this province.