7 REASONS TO MAKE A PIT STOP IN KATIKATI

If you’re driving through the Western Bay of Plenty on SH2 and you’re due for a break from driving, then Katikati is the place to stop, stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat.

THERE’S LOADS OF PARKING

Heading north or south there’s plenty of parking; and it’s all free. Behind the Memorial Hall there’s a large carpark, accessed by the lane between the Memorial Hall and Four Square.

There’s more parking behind the shops on the river side, accessed by the lane beside the ANZ bank. A small layby by Diggelmann Park is handy for those heading south.

 USE THE FACILITIES

Beside Diggelmann Park, on the Main Road, are the main public ‘Kauri Logging themed’ toilets; or pop into the Arts Junction, opposite the Memorial Hall to use their public toilets.

The design was inspired by the Kauri Logger Huts commonly built in the Kaimias.

MEET BARRY

Barry and his dog, Jack, are famous icons of the town. Take a seat beside Barry, snap a selfie or tell him about your day - he’s a great listener!

Oamaru-based sculptor Donald Paterson used his friend Barry Menzies as a model for the statue that was erected in 1999. He then commandeered his clothes, shoes and cap, saturating them with resin, to outfit the ‘kiwi bloke’.  Barry’s body is made of fibreglass and Barry himself, an electroplater by trade, applied the unique glowing copper finish to his look-alike’s face and hands.

Jack the dog joined Barry in 2006.

Barry is much loved in the community and withstands many hugs and visitors climbing over him. At the end of November 2002 Barry ‘lost his head’ due to vandalism, but the community rallied and by Christmas time Barry was back in one piece.

A PLAYGROUND THE KIDS WILL LOVE

A brand new playground between The Arts Junction and the Western Bay Museum features an avocado trampoline that will keep the kids happy as they bounce off excess energy before the rest of the car trip.

GRAB A QUICK BITE TO EAT

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to bakeries in Katikati with four along the Main Road, including the Busy Baker (at the southern end of town)  offering gluten-free pies.

STRETCH YOUR LEGS

Explore the Haiku walkway, accessed by the lane beside Robert Harris or by the path behind The Arts Junction. The path meanders around the Uretara Stream and boulders interspersed along the path each feature a Haiku poerm.

GET A MEMENTO

Remember your stop over with a Katikati fridge magnet available from the Retail Therapy shop in The Arts Junction, home to the Visitor Information Centre and Carlton Gallery.

LOOKING FOR MORE TO EXPERIENCE?

For more art galleries visit here.

Want to catch a movie in the boutique Junction Theatre visit here.

Fancy a soak in the hot pools? Visit here.

Ready to hit the shops? Visit here.

Or check out other local walks that are also dog friendly here.