Kawhia: Outdoor adventure playground

By CEDRIC GRAY

The sale of a delightful Kawhia property is creating interest well beyond the coastal township, because the price could well reflect the growing popularity of the region as an outdoor adventure playground.

Residents of the township (there is a permanent population of about 650) cherish the isolation, yet they readily concede they can no longer keep the beauty of the area under lock and key.

More to the point, perhaps, is the fact that property values at Raglan, 45km north, have rocketed in the last few years - and Kawhia is bound to be the next port of call for Waikato and King Country residents keen to buy property on the west coast.

Another factor bound to influence the township's growth is the popularity of the northern King Country with young thrill-seekers. The nearby climbing, abseiling, horse treks and mountain bike trails are classic examples.

Add to these pursuits the raw natural beauty of the region, and it's a pretty safe bet that Kawhia will come further into its own as a popular holiday destination. Hamilton, Te Awamutu and Otorohanga are about an hour's drive away.

It's surprising in many ways that Kawhia has retained its peace and quiet for so long. It nestles alongside a harbour that covers more than 6000ha. An expanding charter boat fleet fishes the snapper and hapuka grounds off the coast, and come February some switch to big game fishing offshore. The harbour itself is renowned for its flounder and shellfish.

The pulse in the township quickens at least twice a year - when the five-oar whaleboat regatta is held in January, and when the whitebait season opens in August. Scores of nets line the riverbanks in the region when the call "the whitebait are running" spreads like wildfire.

The 2370sq m property, in Wetere St, is tailor-made for any future expansion of the township. It has majestic views of the harbour, is surrounded by mature easy-care lawns and gardens - the native trees and shrubs attract a variety of bird life - and it is close to most community facilities.

The two-level, two-bedroom home occupies a well-sheltered site at the end of a cobbled driveway, which also provides access to a separate garage and workshop. Double doors open from the lounge on the first floor to a large deck, making the home ideal for entertaining both inside and out. A Kent log fire with a wetback provides ample winter heating.

The furnished property will be auctioned at Bayleys, Hamilton, on July 8. For more information, contact Graeme Shaw, Bayleys, on 07 834 3232 or 021 919 626.