Port Waikato

Sand, surf and sunsets

So, where does New Zealand's longest river reach the sea? That would be at Port Waikato in Franklin; a quintessential West Coast destination.

You won’t find crowds here, but that's part of its appeal. Instead, you're likely to meet a splattering of locals and visitors enjoying the very same things—surf, sand, shellfish, cafes, and fresh fish and chips from the classic coastal town takeaway.

The main surfing strip at Port Waikato is not called Sunset Beach for nothing. Hit the ocean swells with the local surfers if you like, or simply take in the beach, but don't miss one of the richest sun-setting shows in the country.

And when you're done, put on a pair of soft shoes and get exploring among the black-sand dunes and coastal walks. Join the locals fishing for Kahawai, netting for flounder, or digging for shellfish. You might even like to join in the anticipated whitebaiting season that runs between 15 August and 30 November each year.

Baches are available for rent at Port Waikato. Lodges, farm-stays or the local holiday park all have an open-door policy, but, no matter where you lay your head, make sure you put aside ample time to explore the area.

There's a heap of soft adventure in this the region, including the unspoilt Nikau Glowworm Caves, located between Port Waikato and Raglan; and the rock formation where Weathertop Hollow was filmed for Lord of the Rings.