Pit Stop: Waikino Hotel

With a century-long history that includes fires, ghosts, dry periods of prohibition and severe flooding, there's nowhere better to stop for a drink than the Waikino Hotel. Recently reopened after a nine-month renovation, the current building is the third establishment to stand on this spot overlooking the river. The restaurant is open for pizzas, platters and pints, and there's accommodation available. 8541 State Highway 2, Waikino, (07) 863 8381, waikinohotel.nz