To say that Rod and Lynne Pulford are busy is an understatement. They balance the management of Ngati Ruanui Stratford Mountain House alongside their own luxury Stratford accommodation, Platinum Lodge, with spending quality time with their 13 grandchildren and getting out and about to enjoy the beautiful place they call home. You'll love the secret spots Rod and Lynne have discovered!
Local secret #1:
Poetaema Walk
Pembroke Road, Stratford
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We love this walk because it really is for everyone. It's a scenic 15 minute walk in and the view at the end will take your breath away as you look across the wetlands out to an amazing vista of Mount Taranaki. We have taken our grandchildren on this walk and they love it. The track is easily accessible even for pushchairs or wheelchairs. It's simply stunning, and something that everyone can enjoy.
Local secret #2:
Stratford Golf Club
Pembroke Road, Stratford
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This is a gem of a secret not to be missed, even if you are not a golfer. The beautifully manicured, park-like course is a pleasure to play on, and everyone is welcome. The signature hole is a sight to behold because on a clear day Mount Taranaki is in full force right in front of you. It's the most beautiful distraction and even the most competitive golfer will appreciate that view interfering with a hole in one!
Local secret #3:
Waingongoro Swing Bridge
Pembroke Road, Stratford (follow the road for 15km till you reach the Stratford Mountain House)
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The Waingongoro Hut tracks are a must-do walk in the Egmont National Park. One of our favourite parts is the thrill of crossing the Waingongoro Swing Bridge, the highest swing bridge in the park. You can begin the walk from the Ngati Ruanui Stratford Mountain House. The track crosses several unbridged streams before reaching the Waingongoro swing bridge. Across the bridge a short track leads down to the DOC hut.
Local secret #4:
Carrington Walkway
Corner of Portia Street & Fenton Street, Stratford
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We love the Three Bridges Trail on the Carrington Walkway, which follows the Patea River and offers some beautiful views. It's really peaceful and serene, and leads to a really popular rhododendron dell. There is a great swimming hole along the way, and the track has been upgraded recently.
Local secret #5:
King Edward Park
Corner of Fenton Street & Portia Street, Stratford
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Stratford's King Edward Park is an incredibly special place to explore, especially on these hot balmy summer nights. We enjoy coming here to fish, and nothing beats finding your perfect riverside spot in the park and settling into a few hours of trout fishing. It is a great way to unwind and relax amongst nature at its best.
Remember you will need your fishing license.