I moved to Orewa Beach 12 years ago. I had finished my degree in Hamilton and decided I wanted to live closer to the beach.
I was brought up on the North Shore so living by the beach was a given – I was happiest when I could see the water.
Moving to Hibiscus Coast it never dawned on me how much this area would sink into my soul.
Not only are the views to die for but I discovered the Coast has a diverse and caring community.
It’s the people that make a community and we are certainly blessed to have some amazing people on the Coast.
Orewa Beach is the center of all the suburbs with its vast beach, cafe’s, walks and parks. Locals are seen every morning and afternoon walking the beach then they pour into Oliver’s cafe. Bobby the owner gets busy making coffee while greeting everyone by name.
There is nothing better than sitting out on a picnic table having a morning coffee watching everyone start their day.
Paulines Favourite Cafes – who make great coffee
1. Olivers Cafe – Try the Eggs Bene or Smashed Avocado, you have the option to replace bread with hash cakes – which is my favourite. Coffee guaranteed to be good every time.
2. Puff Cafe – This hidden little secret is worth hunting for. Delicatable puffs, a sweet mouthful of a treat with a delish center. One of my favourite lunchtime picks is the Pork Sandwich ( I like it toasted). On the new summer menu, they have soft taco’s which are scrumptious and a healthy option.
3. Dear Coasties – There is always something to treat yourself with at Coasties. Cronuts and their shakes bring locals from afar.
Olivers Cafe Breakfast
There are many food choices for locals and for people who are passing through. Spent the day at the beach and have a quick wash off at the showers on the beach and then head to one of our great restaurants. The evenings in the summer are long with the sun going down around 9pm. I love the fact we can meet up, sit outside with a glass of wine chatting with people passing by. You don’t have to wait long.
Dine in Orewa beach, North Auckland
Paulines Favourite Resturants
1. Coast bar and bites – stop in for a cheeky beer, not your run of the mill beer but a range of thirst-quenching craft beers. Portions are plentiful, get one of their large platters to share amongst friends. One of my go-to meals are the slow-cooked ribs. They are delicious. Coast bar and bites give you an overview of the beach from their upstairs deck.
2. Kuzina – A combination of Greek and Italian. Sit outside under the umbrellas or inside where you will feel transported to the Mediterranean. Treat yourself to one of the delightful Spanish wines on offer. My favourite is the Spanish Rose’. You cant go wrong with any of their meals they are all a truly delicious experience.
3. Mick’s – Off the beaten track you will find Micks. If you are looking for the best steak in Orewa then you have to drop into MICK’S – Chargrilled and mouthwatering. If you are a foodie then you cant go past trying out Mick’s.
What to do in Orewa ?
1. Sup Boarding in the estuary. Don’t worry you don’t need to know how to do it because Nik at SupShed does lessons – Don’t have a board, don’t worry you can hire one. Just park at the estuary off the main road and jump in. Also at full tide, if you are courageous enough you can jump off the wharf. It is a must do!
2. Obviously, go Swimming – with 3km of beach, there is lot of places to choose from. Orewa is a very safe beach to swim but if you have young children always swim between the flag. Also Orewa beach is a great beach to learn how to surf on. Park near the Orewa Life saving club where you can change in the changing rooms and shower after your swim.
3. Te Ara Tahuna Estuary Cycleway and Walkway – Have a few hours up your sleeve then I highly recommend walking or biking around the estuary. Very popular with locals so not to be used as a race track. One of the stunning views is on dusk with the sun setting in the West. Take your camera and capture an incredible night sky.
Orewa isn’t far away to spend the day if you are coming up from Auckland City. Get away from the craziness of the city. With over 13 surrounding beaches up the peninsular, you could spend a few days staying at the local B&B and make it your prerogative to experience each beach has to offer.
