July 19 Bream Bay
We explored the nearby coast and beach.
Surfing in winter!
We visited the Mangawhai Tavern, established pre-1862. The current building was built in 1890.
July 17 Waipu Caves
We moved up to Northland, the northern extension of the North Island, to the town of Waipu to stay with our friend Sam. In between stormy, rainy days, we drove up the gravel road to the Waipu Caves.
The rock formations in this area have been carved through limestone by the abundant water. This looks like a frog face profile to me!
The entrance to the cave is slippery and the rains have flooded the floor so we didn’t venture very far in.
July 14 Mount Mangere
Early morning hike up the mountain.
Afternoon hike across the foot bridge into the next town. Mount Mangere is in the background on the right.
The other side of Mount Mangere, from a park exhibiting a pioneer farm.
July 13 A Day in Auckland
Another extinct volcano to climb for a view of the Auckland skyline.
An easier route down!
A Pohutukawa tree holding up a wall!
Bananas grow in Auckland?!!
If you look closely you can see someone getting ready to jump off the tower, and the guide instructing them! We were on a busy street far below and watched as they completed the jump!
July 12 Bought a Car and Climbed a Mountain!
Our new car, A Toyota Aqua that talks to us in Japanese.
Mount Mangere, an extinct volcano, walking distance from our B&B.