Building an off-grid sanctuary: James Johnston and the story of Nikau Bay
Te Araroa Tales: Local Stories from New Zealand’s Long PathwayShow Notes
What makes someone dedicate decades of their life to welcoming strangers into their backyard?
For over ten years, James Johnston has welcomed family campers and Te Araroa trail walkers to Nikau Bay, a secluded campsite near Whangarēi built by hand using reclaimed native wood.
Beyond running the camp, James actively maintains the local trail and supports conservation efforts for the endangered Australasian Bittern.
In this episode of Te Araroa Tales, James shares why he chose to put down roots in this quiet corner of Aotearoa 30+ years ago, the story behind creating Nīkau Bay, and why the native Nīkau palm holds a special place in his heart.
If you enjoy this episode, please hit follow or subscribe to hear more local stories from along the Te Araroa Trail, or take a moment to leave a review, which helps spread the word and share these stories with others who are interested in New Zealand’s long distance trail and the local stories along its route.
Show notes:
Love Bittern project: https://lovebittern.com/ Nikau Bay Campsite: https://tutukakacamping.co.nz/
More from Te Araroa Tales: Local Stories from New Zealand’s Long Pathway
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"We are the kaitiaki. We're here to nurture this land because it allows us to live on it, so we need to look after it"
Te Araroa Tales takes you into the heart of Aotearoa New Zealand through the voices of the people who live and work along the route of the Te Araroa Trail, a 3,000 km thru-hike from Cape Reinga to Bluff. From trail angels and kaitiaki to conservationists and entrepreneurs, explore stories of culture, history and belonging, and the many different ways that people connect with the land and with one another. Hit follow to join the journey!