Trendy Thames

There are lots of Public Holidays coming up in New Zealand in the next few weeks.    On Monday 29th January is Auckland Anniversary Day (Northland and Nelson too) and the following Tuesday 6th February is Waitangi Day.  If you still don't have anything planned why not take a trip to Thames?

 Thames is a trendy township in the Waikato region of New Zealand and is situated between the Firth of Thames and the majestic ranges of the Coromandel Forest Park.  It is the gateway to the Coromandel Peninsula, with most beaches within an hours drive.

 The best day to visit is on a Saturday when the Grahamstown end of Pollen Street comes alive with the weekly market.  Operating between 8am and noon, there are stalls offering fruit and veg, plants, crafts and antiques.
Dogs having their morning coffee
At the end of Pollen Street is the Depot complex.  Within the courtyard are a deli, art gallery and other delights.  The front of the Depot hosts Cafe Melbourne, the perfect spot for brunch.  

Driving northwards, there are beautiful beach spots.  We stayed at Ngarimu Bay and watched the sunset.  Thames is a fisherman's paradise and there are many charter boats departing off the Firth coastline.

There was so much on offer at Thames that we are planning to spend another weekend exploring the area.  I'd like to visit the Butterfly and Orchid Garden, the Goldmine Experience and pop in at Sola Cafe.


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