17 October 2025, Issue 1282
What an adventure! “It started as a dream when I was only young,” said Barry Anderson, pictured with wife Barbara. In the 1970s the police youth aid officer wanted to buy a house on the hill overlooking the Wairoa River and teach kayaking to children of all ages. The couple bought the property in 1971 and
started Waimarino in 1975. What ensued was a wild ride of creating Tauranga’s most iconic adventure attraction. This month, Waimarino Group, now owned and run by their son Blair, turns 50 years old. What the Andersons started – with six kayaks and a small shed back – has morphed into
three businesses. Today, Waimarino Adventure Park, Waimarino Kayak Tours and Waimarino Riverside – plus the Waimarino Education Trust – cater to the local community, schools nationwide and domestic and international tourists alike. Hundreds of youth, families, schools and
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up to
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travelers have made beautiful memories on the river thanks to Waimarino Group, and the Anderson family hope many more will in future. Read more about the park’s history, and the massive deals, activities and fun on offer this Labour weekend to celebrate Waimarino’s 50th birthday on pages 16-17. Photo / Brydie Thompson
Come in and see us today!
Tauranga: 47 Waihi Rd, (07) 578 4169 Mt Maunganui: 91 Newton St, (07) 572 0044 or shop online at shop.resene.co.nz
Resene premium paints, stains, primers and sealers and
10 litre pails, wallpaper, decorating accessories and cleaning products
Discounts off the normal retail price 9-31 October 2025 at Resene owned ColorShops and participating resellers. Paint offers also available at participating Mitre 10 MEGA/Mitre 10 stores. Valid only with cash/credit card/EFTPOS purchases. Not available in conjunction with account sales, promotional vouchers/coupons or other offers. Excludes trade, ECS,WallPrint, wall decals, Crown products, Resene Landscape products and PaintWise levy.