WAIKATO: WAIPA

We arrived at the bustling cafe on a lovely clear mid-winter day, stopping to have lunch and a quick look at their overnight parking facilities.

Our initial impression was of the beautifully laid out grounds, with mature trees, and the modern architecture of the cafe. The food on display looked fresh and appertising. We ordered lunch and chatted to the new owners who had only taken over the business a couple of months earlier. He was working in Auckland, where he met his Pirongia-born wife, and they eventually relocated back to her home town, enjoying the small town country lifestyle, and the opportunity to start up a new business venture in a way that they couldn't afford to do in Auckland.

He was enthusiastic about the RV parking area, and had just added in power to the sites. There is not a lot of room, but enough for six vans, The toilets and showers are locked, with access provided if staying overnight. 

We enjoyed our brief stop. The cafe was well patronised by local people, and the food was good. We'd happily stay overnight while exploring the Waikato.