Water under the BRIDGE

KERRE PUTS THE BRAKES ON PROTESTING CYCLISTS

Whenever I travel to the KaÌ„piti Coast to visit the family, I’m always struck by how very civilised the place is. I spend most of my time at Waikanae Beach, where the children are renting a home, but having visited Paraparaumu and Raumati and PaekaÌ„kaÌ„riki, I can’t help but think how lovely it would be to make a home in one of these coastal townships. All the essentials are there. Great coffee – although, to be fair, name me one town in New Zealand that doesn’t have great coffee.

There’s at least one good café or restaurant and gorgeous stretch of coastline where you can fish, swim, surf, horse ride or walk for miles – whatever you fancy. Plus, live music, thriving dramatic societies and doctors’ clinics for those who need that extra reassurance. And so many family-friendly playgrounds! It’s a wonderland for young families and retirees, which makes for a great combination.