[cathgates]

We are planning to settle in the area of Tauranga, as this is were my oh has plenty of job opportunities, but we don't fancy the higher house prices, so we were wondering if anyone can suggest an easy commute that will provide us with a nice place to live, and also employment for myself - I have some admin experience but am happy to turn my hand to anything!!!
I was wondering about Te Puke, or maybe around Matamata. Any help or suggestions would be good.
Thanks
Cath X

[Carey]

We're researching Katikati and area but is that too far to commute into Tauranga? Would imagine quite a drive from Matamata, can't remember how long when we did it on reccie, but very hilly?

[cathgates]

Thanks Carey, Katikati is also one on the 'to do' list!!! All I am going on is the map we have on the wall and choosing towns that have a main road leading to Tauranga - I know, not very scientific!!! I have ordered the 2008 AA road map of New Zealand, so that will hopefully give us a better idea of distance.
By the way, have you heard anything about your interview yet?

Cath X

[Mickstim]

Cath - I know I don't live there yet but have been a number of times! Te Puke is a bit closer than Katikati but I would think both of them are possible as long as you don't mind a 30 minute commute (although I suppose in rush hour it may take a bit longer). Have you looked at Papamoa? That's a bit closer and properties seem a bit cheaper than Tauranga itself.

B x

[cathgates]

I've had a quick look at property in Papamoa, and the ones I have found so far seem really expensive, although on the internet, it does take a little longer to find what your looking for compared to being there. I think we will probably have a good drive round all the areas and all the estate agents once we are there.

Cath x

[Park City Partner]

We live in Papamoa and my Partner did some relief work in MataMata. It took him 45 minutes to get there. He says to Tauranga you would be maybe 10 minutes closer....

[Tia Maria]

We live in Papamoa and my Partner did some relief work in MataMata. It took him 45 minutes to get there. He says to Tauranga you would be maybe 10 minutes closer....

Hello there! How's it going in that part of the world? Is it an improvement on Auckland?

Cheers

Tia

[cathgates]

Hi park city, thanks, actual travel times done by 'real' people are useful to know.

Cath X

[b&k]

Katikati > Tauranga and Te Puke > Tauranga are easy 15 minute drives along a decent road. If you're going to the Mount, it's better to be on the Te Puke side as the traffic from Taurana to the mount can be slow in rush hour.

The road to Matamata goes over the Kaimais and is steep and twisty (it has emergency escape points on some downhill bits.

Other places you might want to consider are Te Puna, Omokoroa or Pyes Pa whcih are all closer but still in the country. If you want to live on the edge of town, the new developments around Bethlehem, Tauriko and Welcome Bay are quite reasonable.

IMHO, I'd choose Katikat as it is a good town with some culture and is far enough away from the city to buy a larger lot. Papamoa is quite expensive and the lot sizes are quite small as the beach is nearby.

[cathgates]

Hi B&K thanks for the info - can't wait to get their and check it all out in the flesh!!!

Cath X