Hello again! Just another update to keep you posted on what's been going on. From Auckland, we caught a ferry to the Coromandel Peninsula, which lies to the East of the city. The journey was lovely, we passed lots of small islands, many of which were privately owned and looked absolutely idyllic. On our arrival at the peninsula, we were then picked up by a small, locally run shuttle bus which took us into Coromandel town. The buses are very different to those in England. In the smaller towns, the driver will pretty much pick you up and drop you off wherever you want to go. It's a much more friendly system.
Coromandel town was a really charming little place, although not at all what I expected. It felt like we'd travelled back in time when we arrived. Pip said he felt like a group of cowboys were about to appear from some saloon bar! The scenery surrounding the town was spectacular, lots of steep hills that are covered in forestry. During our two day stay, we visited the Driving Creek railway line. The entire track was built by just one man over a period of 20 years, and was used traditionally as a means of transporting firewood to his pottery in the town. Now it is a prime tourist attraction. The train takes you upwards through the forest, to a spectacular viewing area towards the top of the hill. From here, the views across the coastline are fantastic.
From coromandel town, we caught another bus down to Whitianga, where we are currently staying with Colin and Greta. Since arriving here, we have never stopped! It's just been one activity after another! We've had two full days fishing (one more successful than the other), we've been swimming and sailing, and have even had a go at some pretty cool watersports! Plus, we've visited both cathedral cove and hot water beach, which were both very impressive. Hot water beach was amazing...you dig a big hole in the sand at low tide, and the water under the surface is really hot (scorching hot in places). Feels like you are lying in a bath! Everyone has been so lovely to us here, and its been fantastic to have a go at so many different activities!
Today, the boys have gone up to Auckland to try and buy us a vehicle, so me and Anna are having a bit of a rest day! Weather still fantastic...we've been very lucky! Will keep you posted on whats to come, and hope you enjoy looking at the pics I've added!xxx
Update: Just been for a walk with Anna and Colin along Cook's beach. It was really nice, as the sun had started to cool off! Had a paddle and saw the very spot where Captain Cook landed the Endeavour several centuries ago! It was difficult to comprehend that the very same ship would have sailed all the way from Whitby Harbour.
Just finishing the evening off now with a cup of tea and a piece of Greta's delicious homemade shortbread! Heard that the boys have bought us a vehicle, so that's good news! Don't know what kind it is though yet, so will have to wait till tomorrow to find out! Night Night (or perhaps I should say good morning!).xxx
