Cape Palliser

Nature's power

Remote and romantic Palliser Bay, with a wild sea coastline rich in Maori and early European history, is a location where the fur seals are so common you may even find them residing in the grass on the roadside.

First find a cosy local pub or campsite or even indulge yourself in a luxury lodge then get ready to explore this off-the-beaten-track corner located on the southernmost point of the North Island.

You must climb up the 250 steps of the historic, candy-striped Cape Palliser lighthouse and take in the remoteness and stunning coastal views that extend to the South Island on a clear day.

Commercial anglers eke out a living at the sleepy fishing village of Ngwai. Here you can watch their boats with the morning catch dragged ashore by ageing tractors, some with distinct personalities and colours to match (look out for 'Babe' and 'Kermit').

At Lake Ferry, the whitebaiting season brings the locals out in a frenzy to sift the waters of the estuary for the translucent gold.

You can't miss the sight of the weird rock formations of the Putangirua Pinnacles and their bizarre weathered organ pipes. Visit these ancient gravel deposits and absorb the eerie stillness of the 'middle earth' setting.