We headed north up SH 1 on a good road to Cape Reinga (100kms). The whole tourist area has been very well done with good signs and information. We walked down to the light house with views of the Three Kings Islands and the turbulent water where the Pacific meets the Tasman. A short drive back to a great DOC reserve in Tapotupotu Bay. We parked with great views of the bay and estuary. This was a beaut camping spot and we stayed there 3 nights. The first night 2 guys, who had towed a boat and a caravan up 90 Mile Beach from Kaitiai, gave the whole camp (about 4 couples, German and Austrian) some

beautiful snapper fillets. It was probably the best fish we have ever eaten!! We did some great walks including following the Cape Reinga Walkway back towards the Cape with stunning views of our bay and the lighthouse. A few campervans came and went. One morning 4 guys with 2 boats tried to launch from the beach at low tide. What a performance! We spent most of the morning watching them get stuck

and digging themselves out. All very entertaining. Last night it rained so we drove off our camp site before having breakfast. (a muddy patch by the gate!) We are now in a camp at Houhora Heads. On the way we called into Te Paki stream. This is where the buses etc leave 90 Mile Beach heading north. It is also where sand surfing is popular. Unfortunately it was raining so we had a quick climb up the sand dunes and no surfing. We have discovered that the Rally of NZ comes thru the Dargaville area on Saturday so have decided to re-arrange our schedule to see a special stage. We drove south thru Kaiatia (shopping) and on 

to Ahipara (where Ninety Mile Beach starts) for lunch. South again to Herekino Harbour where we spent the night on the Owhata Marae. When we arrived at the Marae we walked on to the area and eventually found a Maori guy in a shack who said it was fine to stay the night. The view where we parked was greatlooking straight down the harbour. The Maori bloke was called H Heki. (could it be Honi Heki??) The weather is fine most of the time but the odd few heavy showers come thru.

We drove south again thru isolated beautiful country to the Hokianga Harbour where we caught the ferry across to Rawene for lunch. We are now at Opononi in a camp with nice views of the harbour mouth.

South again with a stop for a short walk into Tane Mahuta, the largest Kauri tree in NZ. The drive thru the Waipoua Forest was spectacular. The road is now tar sealed and very nice. We have camped at Trounson Kauri Park. There was a beautiful walk thru the Kauri forest. The kauri trees are majestic! Went for a walk after dark to sight some kiwis but with no luck. Now in Dargaville to sort out the rally tomorrow, book a ferry and post this blog.