people taking gas cookers out to make a twilight dinner and tourists are utilising the free Motorhome camping area that accommodates up to 6 motorhomes.
The river is crisp, clear and at hightide is super deep! The "mouth" entry is popluar with people looking for flounder and keen fisherman are out surfcasting for delicious Kahawai. Lots of whanau cross the shallow pool to reach the deeper waters just back of the mouth, or as the locals call it "The Cutway" where it's great swimming also. If you're looking for a quieter space and don't mind a walk along the tracks avaliable then you can by pass the mouth and head up the back, past the floodgates.
The council have left the gates open for the summer season. At the end of the road you'll see a walkway way up a small incline as well as a well trodden path to the right of the concrete blocks and gate (which stop further traffic going through)... follow either of these paths and you'll come to the river; deep, cool, refreshing and so very inviting.
You can walk away's down a path that runs alongside the river and you'll find plenty of space to sit, spread out the picnic rug and chill! The sunsets are spectacular and worth a look... you will be blown away! Remember there's a complete No Fire Ban in place so please be a sensible Kiwi (or visitor)... Take away your rubbish and leave it sweet for the next hot and tired person looking to cool off in the stunning waters of Te Awa o Otaki
He taonga te wai - Our water is precious!
PS: To find our river, head out towards Otaki Beach and follow the sea to the left on Marine Parade. This'll bring you to the river road entry.. follow the other cars or if in doubt, ask a local.. we'll help you out! It's an approx 5min drive from town.. Happy Swimming!
Author:Treeza Coldstream, Otaki
