We left at 10:00am to explore the Bay of Plenty. Ok, a part of it. We had a look at Kawarau as we drove through the town and out past the paper mill in which Ed has spend a large chunk of his working life. We drove past the Edgecumbe Dairy Factory where Caroline (Ed and Trish’s daughter) worked and on to Awakeri at the junction of State Highways 2 and 30 where the two highways run together briefly through the village.
We continued on to Wakatane to see the boats and see if we could find Moko the Dolphin. This is a wild dolphin that has caused quite a stir by appearing at various places in the region. But he must have been having a kip today. We went on to Wakatane Heads and stopped off for cake and coffee. Whakatane is a beautiful seaside resort town with great views over the river and sea. We took photos of Wairaka (the skinny bird on the left). This is a Copenhagen Mermaid type statue of the Daughter of Toroa, who was the captain of the Matatua canoe. It would appear that this canoe was one of the main fleet of the Maori migration from Hawaiki in 1340. A voyage of 2,000 miles. We took a look at a Waka, a Maori boat. Very nice. Then went to the waterfall that was the main supply of fresh water up to the 1920’s. Then went on to the Hillcrest Lookout where I recorded a video clip. This can be seen, by request, and the payment of a small fee.
We then drove on to Otarawairere. This is where Ed and Trish’s dog is being held captive while we stay in his house. Not the dog house. The proper one. We then went on to Kohi Point. Once again, this afforded great views of the countryside and sea. More videos of Maori totem poles and things. After looking out from the lookout we went down to sea level at West End Ohope then went on to get fish and chips at Ohiwa Harbour. We actually went for fresh oysters as Ed said they were tons better than those that Hugh likes at Clevedon. But they had sold out so we had great fish and chips instead.
Came home through the Waimana Gorge then over a rail road bridge. This is the main highway 2 which becomes a single track bridge with a railway in it that you share with the railway train. Fortunately the railway is now closed! Can you make out the rail track in the middle of the carriageway. Bit dodgy, this, if you ask me. Back in Kawarau we had a walk down by the river where it becomes white water rapids and Slalom gates are installed for events. A really nice spot. Then arrived home and crashed out, again! Trish and Ed provided another smashing meal and we chatted a bit and had a wee dram or two and so to bed.
Don’t know when I’ll be able to publish the blog again as we hit the road tomorrow and stay over for a few nights at various places.
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