Went camping at Martins bay Holiday Park in the Hauraki Gulf. A Really beautiful place. Nice beach to sunbathe, fish and swim at. Clean and tidy Holiday park. Would love to go again, maybe for a longer weekend. We were joined by friends who ironically enough, drives the same make, model and color car as us, have the same tent as us and have some identical Camping equipment as us.
There are a couple of things that we learned on this trip again, like for instance: The entire Rodney district has a fire ban in place currently. Martins bay Holiday park was once one of the few places that allowed open fire on the beach and in the camp ground, but no more. Snorkeling is not advised everywhere. It is possible to catch snapper from the beach, but be prepared to cast 30 minutes before sunrise.
Tip: before going camping, check out the regional area’s council website for breaking news like this. It can save frustration, humiliation and $100 in fines.
Tip: Not all camp grounds are created equally: A ground cover tarp can be invaluable. Two are even better.
Tip: Not all camp grounds are created equally: Find out whether Hot water showers are free, or coin operated and get coins before hand, if needed.
Tip: Coin operated Kiwi BBQ are not made to BBQ Boerewors. The juices clogs up the drain hole in no time rendering it flooded and useless until properly cleaned! Make sure you have a portable gas BBQ with a Griddle for the Boerie!
Tip: Keep a permanent marker with your camping equipment. Mark all your equipment with your name and phone number. Mark and date any food kept in communal kitchen fridges.
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