January 20 - around Paihia and Russell

Wednesday 20 January

Today we had re-booked our heli flight, leaving at 10am. The weather was still a little cloudy but nothing to prevent some wonderful views over the islands and seeing the Hole in the Rock.

Because the cruise ship was in port again the markets were on and taking a stroll through provide very useful. My handbag strap had broken and I found a very suitable replacement in the market. I also found some great winter warmer socks. What luck.

Then we drove up to Kerikeri to visit the Stone Store and Mission House. This is another place full of history. The Stone Store is the oldest stone building in New Zealand. The whole area is still set up like it was during the time of English settlement with all the Maori aspects represented too. 

Unfortunately the rain came again, so we headed back to the car.

We took the drive to Rainbow Falls. A worthwhile side trip as there had been so much rain recently the falls were pretty impressive.

Yet another full day of sightseeing we headed back to the motel for a rest before dinner.

Taking off on our heli flight to Hole in the Rock

Different points of interest are pointed out along the way. This home is owned by a nudist/naturist Italian. A very eco house

Easy to see why it was named Bay of Islands

The Hole in the Rock which everyone wants to see

This is an interesting island. It becomes 3 islands during kind tides when the sea breaks through to the calm side

There are many conditions regarding living on many of the islands, some are protected others are not

The flagstaff at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Returning to Paihia

Kerikeri is very much worth visiting. Here you can find wonderful history

The mission house

The church looking up the hill - always built on high ground!

The Stone House

Prices in another age

The stone for the window surrounds and doorways was brought in from a quarry in Sydney in the Colony of NSW

Across the river is Rewa's village. A reconstruction of what the Maori settlement would have looked like at the time

Rainbow Falls