Our first stop was Goat Island with its popular marine reserve, famed for its accessible snorkelling.
Battalions of kids in snorkeling gear were being led out into the deeper water by what we thought were very brave adults. I'm not sure any teacher in the UK would be willing to risk potential lawsuits by letting their pupils have so much fun out at sea.
I went out to join them, to see what all the fuss was about.
It is a lovely spot for snorkelling, with extensive kelp beds, friendly snapper...
...and more reclusive creatures:
Meanwhile Char was making friends with rather less shy creatures after a bit of lunch!
Heading north, mutant sheep come already dyed for easy sweater making:
We pushed on towards Paihia, gateway to the Bay of Islands and site of the signing of the Waitangi Treaty - the controversial document that created the modern New Zealand. A beautiful region, we enjoyed a little potter about in a kayak exploring the hidden inlets, islands and beaches.
We also stopped in on Liam's sister Frances who now owns and runs a cafe in the town, Alfresco's. It being the end of the summer season and a weekday it was still very busy, and must have been heaving at the Christmas and New Year's celebrations, when half of Auckland seems to come up north for some beautiful weather and beaches.
Paihia was the furthest north we decided to go, before turning back and following the west coast back down. Hokianga Harbour was one of the last stops, with incredible sand dunes perfect for sand-boarding down!
And outrigger canoe racing going on in the harbour itself:
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