World Famous in New Zealand

Our photo uploading abilities are limited for the time being. Until we get to a hotel in where we can snag reliable (and inexpensive) wi-fi, we’re only able to post a couple pictures per day. More to come when resources allow.

I started the day at about 530a local time, quietly working my way through tiny Pauanui to the eastern beach to catch a few shots of the sun rising. Clouds prevented any spectacular shots, but it was incredible to think I was among the first on the globe to experience the new day.

In our old age, we’ve come appreciate the value of waking early, even on vacation. We hit the local bakery by 730a and, after packing a day-bag, were on the road for Hahei beach and Cathedral Cove by 8. What we thought would be a simple drive up the Pacific coast quickly took on the feel of a rally race as we weaved and ducked, navigating one hairpin turn after another on what is surely the most serpentine road I’ve ever driven.

From NZ Developed

After almost an hour drive to cover just 30 km, we reached Hahei beach, the starting point for what we hoped would be highlight-filled hike to the picturesque Cathedral Cove. The remnants of last week’s Australian cyclone had other ideas, however, as heavy rains forced the New Zealand conservation department to officially close the trail. A hand-written sign at the the trail head said the path was passable “at your own risk,” but it wasn’t to be. When faced with an eight- to ten-foot drop onto the beach from the outcrop above, we thought we could get down but weren’t exactly sure how to get back up, and we ended up tucking our tails in defeat.

Were it not for that disappointment though, we would have missed the highlight of our day at Stingray Bay. Just around the bend from Cathedral Cove, we swam in the chilly but refreshing turquoise waters in the shallow inlet, surrounded by towering stone cliffs on three sides.

From NZ Developed

After a short break for lunch and a taste of the “world famous in New Zealand” Lemon & Paeroa (sort of a Sprite & ginger ale mix that was begging for a shot of Bacardi Limon), we made our way to Flaxmill Bay for another short hike before heading back to Pauanui a bit early, eager for ice cream and some time off our feet. Tomorrow we’re off to Rotorua, known for its hot springs and the prevalence of the native Maori culture. Is it too soon to say we never want to leave?

From NZ Developed