We've had an eventful few weeks since leaving Auckland. We've been tramping, climbing, kayaking, quad biking, tried our hands at fishing and even wild boar hunting (both to no success).
We've seen lots of bush and sandy beaches, been to caves and a waterfall, seen giant sand dunes and 2000 year old Kauri trees, a 90km long beach (called 90 mile beach), glow-worms but no Kiwi.
We've seen lots of bush and sandy beaches, been to caves and a waterfall, seen giant sand dunes and 2000 year old Kauri trees, a 90km long beach (called 90 mile beach), glow-worms but no Kiwi.
Helen driving to kayaks down to the estuary at John and Kristal's farm
Rock climbing at Ti Point
It all started about 100km north of Auckland on our first evening when the van broke down. After limping to the nearest garage the following morning, the mechanic said that it was going to take a week to get the parts and fix... but we could stay with him!! The disappointment of the temporary glitch to our travel plans was soon dissipated by a busy itinerary staying at Craig's friend's farm on the west coast and in the garage boss' caravan in the hills above Matakana.
Stripped Bongo (the van)
Late night fish and chips at Matakana Automotive
A week and a bit later we were off to explore Northland, visiting the northern tip of NZ and all the sights inbetween before limping back to Matakana again, things still weren't right with the van.
Sunset near the Bay of Islands
Cape Reinga, the most northern part of NZ
Tim attempting to cast into the surf at NZ's most northern campsite
So now we have a few more days to spend in Matakana and are still looking forward to heading south...
