Bay of Islands, Paihia and Russell

 We had three fantastic days in Paihia and they gave Dennis a good chance to recover from the trip and me an opportunity to enjoy the scenery with little driving. We had a brilliant first day, starting with a walk up into the beautiful native bush and forest behind the motel. The bird song and the fabulous, lush surroundings were magical. It was so marvelous to be sharing these things with Dennis.  Then we took the ferry to Russell, only twenty minutes away. Lovely trip and lots of laughs, as you can see. I just love this area, the Bay of Islands.

 It was great to sit at the beach to have our lunch and just enjoy the comings and goings at the harbour. I imagine that some weeks ago , it was a bustling town with thousands of tourists, but today it was a sleepy and very restful place.  Our tea time stop at a very picturesque little cafe along the shore was great. The staff and guests were all so friendly and it was just so fabulous to have so much space and such uninterrupted views over the huge grounds with so few tables. We had a great long discussion with our neighbours. Dennis was super impressed by how people here are so open and chatty. I love it too.
After a lazy start in Russell it was time for a bit of exercise, so we set off up Flagstaff Hill to a spectacular lookout over the bay.  It was well worth the steep climb.
 Of course, during the day we would not see any kiwis, but it was great to know kiwis are still relatively plentiful in this region.
 It was thirsty work, so before leaving we had time for a drink at the first hotel to be built in Russell, the Duke of Marlborough Hotel.  What a magnificent sunset casting its silvery , shimmering light on the water.
 The following day we were treated to another superb sunset in Paihia, near the Waitangi grounds
 The view over the harbour was fantastic and it is so nice to take a selfie of my incredibly slim shadow.
 Anzac Day started with a dawn parade right past our motel, with drumming and trumpets, and finished with this magnificent panorama. The rest of Anzac Day is in my Cape Reinga blog.

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