From Rotorua, we traveled North towards Bay of Islands. On the way we stopped at Morrinstown. Up until a few years ago, there really wasn’t much reason to visit this farming town.
But then they hit on the idea of having artists paint some cows and installing them around the town. There are 42 in total dotted around. And then there’s one very cheeky cow who hangs around on the corner.
It’s a bit similar to the Cotswolds Hare Festival, which always has some fabulous designs. Here’s a couple from last year.
After Morrinstown, we headed up to Pakira, just north of Auckland. We stayed in a holiday chalet right on the beach. A storm came in that night, so we had high winds and lots of rain. And believe me, you hear every drop in a tin hut.
The next day we drove 3 hours to Paihia( prounounced pie here!). This is at the heart of Bay of Islands. Here is just a few of the 144 that exist. It’s also the place where the controversial treaty was signed between Maori and the British in 1840. Controversial because the Maori chiefs didn’t not fully appreciate they were signing over to British sovereignty. Another bleak moment in empire building.
We also visited a fantastic glow worm cave. You’ll have to take our word for it, as no photos were allowed, but you can imagine that photographing the little critters would be very difficult. They were like watching the night sky. But here’s some of the wonderful rock formations on the land.
On the way back to Auckland, we stopped at Whangarai (prounounced fang a rye), which is a lovely little harbor town. They have a great clock museum and we liked this quirky little art installation.
Next stop Adelaide.
Little man has popped up once for the eagle eyed among you.
The Nomad Adviser 