Hukutaia Domain is a 15 minute drive from Ohiwa Seascape Studios.
It's contains an extensive collection of native plants in a natural bush setting. It includes an ancient Burial Tree (Taketakerau) which is a giant Puriri tree, estimated to be over 2000 years old used in ancient times by the Upokorehe iwi.
There are celebrations on the 24th of November to mark 100 years since the Domain was set aside as a Reserve. 
The day starts at 4:30am with a Blessing and unveiling of a Waharoa (carved gateway) followed by breakfast at a local marae.  At 9am, people and families connected with the domain past and present will speak about the significance of the domain.
From 11am, there will be guided walks and talks, covering Plants and trees of the domain, Plants and trees used by Maori (dying, weaving, medicinal), trees used in the timber industry and special bugs in the domain, Bookings for the guided walks are recommended and can be make at the Opotiki iSite .
There will also be food and drinks, activities for children among many other exciting things on the day. 
All other times, there are a number of short easy walks, picnic tables and rest areas provided.
Directions to the domain can be found here.

Whakatane is just a 30 minute drive over the hill and there's so much to see and do there. 
There are a few things in this Seven Sharp segment that I have done: I've eaten more than one of the 70,000 ice creams sold at Julians Berry Farm last year, I've eaten fish and chips at Gibbos on the Wharf, and listened to Kiwis on the Friday night Kiwi night walk.
​Still so much more to do though.. Mataatua Marae, (also known as the House that came home), a trip to White Island and a walk or kayak to Otarawairere Bay.  Great to see Kenny from KG Kayaks out there, and of course we have the Motu trails closer to home here in Opotiki.

​You can watch the Seven Sharp article here.
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