July 22 Piroa Falls
A hike down into the Waipu Gorge to find Piroa Falls, a short car drive away from Sam’s house.
A very short hike to the falls, but this is as close as you can get to the falls, the steep gorge walls and slippery, muddy terrain impedes any further progress.
But thanks to the drone we can get a great view!
A leisurely drive across land to the sea. A nice view of the dairy cow paddocks in the hills above the estuary of the Arapaoa River where the boats anchor near the tiny resort town of Pahi.
July 20 Waipu Coastal Walkway
Hiking down the stairs on the Waipu Coastal Walkway, destination is Ding Bay, about 45 minutes south.
The views between rocks and jungle trees are fantastic. It looks tropical, but there was a cool breeze blowing. It IS winter we have to keep telling ourselves!
We made it to Ding Bay, but the tide is in.
On the return hike we had great views of Sail Rock in the distance, looking like a huge ship sailing in. We also spotted a canoe with two hulls, being rigorously rowed by 4 athletes. Maybe they are training for a competition?
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.
