Set in rolling countryside on the south bank of the Waikouaiti River is the tranquil, seaside town of Karitāne, a well-kept secret among east coast locals.

Renowned for its picturesque sandy beaches and excellent surf breaks, this hidden jewel offers a warm, relaxed pace just a five minute detour from the main highway 35km north of the Dunedin city centre.

The Karitāne settlement encompasses Huriawa pā, a major fortification on the striking peninsula overlooking the mouth of the Waikouaiti River. Oral tradition recalls sieges in the late 17th or 18th centuries and giant moa are also likely to have been hunted in this area.

With beautiful cliff-top views and natural blowholes, the striking Huriawa Peninsula provides an abundance of natural resources to enrich the soul. Regular visitors to the rocky coastline include penguins, seals, sea lions and dolphins swimming the inlet.