The Haruru Falls, accessed by a 1.5-hours mangrove walk from the the Waitangi Treaty grounds....we had planned to walk it before Tom became the Chief!!!!! Ran out of time so we drove to it on our way out of Paihia.....it's pretty, but we commented simultaneously, "glad we didn't walk it!"
Sooooo polite!
This is the only one of many roadsigns that I was able to photograph....usually see them when we are driving 60 mph and nowhere to pull over....always in black n white, with a thoughtful reminder. The one we like the best says: "It is not a goal" with the speed limit, 100, circled. Speaking of roadsigns....there aren't many billboards here.....which only enhances the beauty. A few near a major intersection or town, but small, innocuous yet effective.
Hokianga Harbor where several rivers meet the Tasman Sea. Took several pictures which may look the same.....we are trying to capture the different currents vying for dominance which was fascinating to watch.
Note the different color, ripple looking, darker shade on the left...that is the Tasman Sea coming in.
The swirling white capped waters on left.....more current confusion.
No confusion here.....just the beauty of the Tasman Sea.
This is the Tane Mahuta (NZ's largest Kauri tree)......imposing, statuesque....but proof that beauty (and faith) are in the eyes and mind of the beholder....
The cattle are herded between two fences here....rather than randomly across the fields. It makes for quite a sight since they are just a few feet from the roadway, lumbering along. Rolled down the windows to hear the clip clop, mooooo and take the pictures.
Just a tiny cafe along the way.....we have had delicious food no matter the venue or the price. All the quiches look like this to distinguish from a tart....which is less than half the thickness. Ate every bit of it! Delicious. The sauce on the side is one which is served with, beside or on top of everything.....it's a sweet/hot chili sauce....they love it on fries! Tom had his standard fish n chips.
Our first sighting of Auckland, taken from the car!
We are staying at "Mollie's" for our last 4 nights on land. It is so named for a lady who had worked here for 40 years. The main house, which has 5 rooms, was the mayor's residence when originally built in early 1900's. The other 10 rooms were constructed approximately 20 years ago. The current owners occupy 4 of the rooms for the family and the au pair nanny who doubles as a waitress when the children are in school -- a young lady from Annapolis.
This is a loft bedroom with another balcony which we didn't even use. Each suite is different; some have a piano in it! On right is looking down the staircase which is sided with plexiglass for spacious feel and look. Like so much of NZ, the decor is a pleasant blend of antique and contemporary...and monochromatic.
Our main balcony....with those wonderful bifold doors
The sights from said balcony....over rooftops out to sea which is only two blocks away...and the gardens below, part of the property.
Our second rack of lamb....and this one is GOOD!! Close second to Tom's
Mollie's at night upon our return
See you tomorrow, Skytower!
