A serendipitously synchronised dual landing at Auckland airport meant that Daniel and Rebecca were able to pick us up as they returned from Christchurch.

After a brief visit to admire the views from their Takapuna apartment and re-load the car, we headed north to Tony and Jean’s new home in Taurikura.

And then it was over a week’s worth of catching up with Graeme, Daniel and Rebecca, Tony and Jean, Kay and Tanya, interspersed (or at the same time) with bush walks, mountain climbs, café lunches, fishing trips and generally having a good kiwi holiday. Bliss!

Even on our very first full day Nigel couldn’t resist an early morning walk to capture the sunrise.

Since Mt. Manaia is almost in Tony and Jean’s back yard we just had to climb it.

The Mount Aubrey track was a first for us. Graeme joined us and Tony & Jean led the way. Great mix of New Zealand bush and panoramic ocean and harbour views.

The recently completed Hatea Loop around the town basin in Whangarei followed by a steep trek to the top of Mount Parihaka (to catch ‘datas’ for Daniel and Rebecca). Fantastic walks within the city boundaries.

Taurikura Bay in the evening sun.

Yet another early morning photo session for Nigel – Little Munro Bay

Urquharts Bay to Smugglers Bay is always a fabulous walk.  We managed to take the full trek out to Busby Head on a gorgeous day and were lucky to catch the pohutakawa in full bloom.

The Coromandel

Nigel flew back to the sandpit and Sue carried on to Whangamata to see Barry and Ngaire with Daniel and Rebecca – and manage a little early morning fishing.

Also took a trip to Hahei and walked the newly extended Cathedral Cove track with fabulous views over Mercury Bay.

Emily arrived on our last day – great to catch up!