In our 4K walking tour, we walk along the main street of Paeroa, starting at the gazebo at one end of town and end up at the large L&P bottle at the other end of town. Paeroa is a small town with a population of only 4,640 people.
Discovering Paeroa: New Zealand’s Antique Town with a Twist of Lemon
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, Paeroa is a quaint town that might not appear on every traveler’s radar, but it holds treasures waiting to be uncovered. Known for its iconic Lemon & Paeroa (L&P) soft drink, this town offers a unique blend of history, charm, and natural beauty. Here’s our guide to exploring Paeroa.
The Birthplace of L&P
Your journey in Paeroa should start with a tribute to its most famous creation – Lemon & Paeroa. This fizzy drink, made from lemon juice mixed with carbonated mineral water from the local springs, has become a symbol of Kiwi ingenuity. Visit the L&P Café, where you can taste the original drink or indulge in L&P flavored treats. Don’t miss the giant L&P bottle monument at the entrance of the town; it’s a must-snap photo spot for visitors. If you ever need a public toilet, there is one at the end of the carpark where the giant bottle is.
Antique Hunting
Paeroa was once referred to as the antique capital of New Zealand. The main street, Belmont Road, was lined with antique shops and second-hand stores where time seems to have stood still. Unfortunately, many of these antique stores have disappeared over the last decade and we notice there are only a handful left. Still, with the ones remaining you can hunt for vintage treasures, from retro Kiwi memorabilia to elegant pieces of yesteryear’s decor. Each shop tells a story, and you might just find a unique souvenir to take back home.
Historical Walks and Heritage
Take a stroll through Paeroa’s Historical Maritime Park, which offers a peek into the town’s past as a significant port on the Ohinemuri River. The park features historical buildings, old ships, and plenty of information on how Paeroa played a role in New Zealand’s maritime history.
For those interested in a deeper historical dive, the Paeroa Museum provides insights into the local Maori and European settler history, with artifacts and exhibits that paint a vivid picture of the town’s past.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
If nature calls to you, Paeroa doesn’t disappoint. Just a short drive from the town, you can explore the Karangahake Gorge. Here, the scenic trails, old gold mining tunnels, and the stunning Windows Walk offer adventurers and photographers alike a playground of natural beauty. The walk along the Waitawheta River, especially through the suspension bridge, is both exhilarating and picturesque.
For a more relaxed outdoor experience, the Paeroa Domain provides lovely picnic spots, or you can enjoy a leisurely walk around its well-maintained gardens.
Events and Festivals
Time your visit to coincide with one of Paeroa’s events if possible. The Paeroa Highland Games & Tattoo, usually held in February, showcases Scottish culture with piping, drumming, dancing, and traditional sports. It’s a vibrant celebration that brings the community and visitors together in a colorful display of heritage.
Paeroa might be small, but it’s packed with character, history, and activities. Whether you’re sipping on the world-famous L&P, exploring relics of the past, or hiking through breathtaking landscapes, Paeroa invites you to slow down and savor the simpler joys of travel. In this hidden gem of New Zealand, every corner has a story, and every sip of L&P reminds you of the sweet simplicity of Kiwi innovation.
The closest town to Paeroa is Waihi. You go through the beautiful Karangahake Gorge to get there.
