My family come from Aropaoanui, the Maori side of the river. It is the most tranquil place on earth in my mind. Moving away from there 9 years ago has led to 9 years of homesickness. Before cyclone Bola came through, there was a camping ground which was well occupied in the holidays...since then it all depends wether you know the people who live down there(namely the Dawsons) well enough for you to camp, but the land is old and tells tales of long forgotten days on the opposite banks.
A Urupa is a cemetery where the old people are buried can be found there. Beyond is a small valley where evidence of the old old dwellings are still visible. When you have been there a few times and have allowed for your mind and spirit to feed on the energy, it is a place that will tug at your heart strings...speaking from experience.
If you ever choose to visit this small paradise, be sure to ask permission of all things from the people who live there, as , good manners will get you everywhere... I should know because she is my Mum!!