We are all up early and start the day with happy faces and full stomachs. We drive just around the corner where we are greeted by the amazing crew at Manea Footprints of Kupe. I don't want to give too much away, all I will say is the live interactive show is truly remarkable. Hold onto your seats and brace for a wild ride!
Not only is Opononi known as the first place where Kupe is said to have landed, it is also the town where Opo the Dolphin gained international news coverage in the 1950s for playing close to the beach with the locals - it was the first recorded incidence in the world.
Before catching the small vehicular ferry across the Hokianga harbour from Rawene to Kohukohu I recommended to my group to have a look at my good friend's art gallery and cafe. No 1 Parnel Gallery in a converted historic building constructed primarily from Kauri timber. The beautiful floors are worth the visit alone! You can also visit Clendon House, a short walk from the cafe, and steeped in history.
After leaving the ferry it is a lovely drive through some picturesque countryside before arriving at Butler Point Whaling Museum. If you haven't been to this old whaling station before you are in for a real treat. Jan is a wonderful host and shows us around her home and museum which has been in the family for many generations. We also have lunch here among the birds and pohutukawa. There is an original whaling boat on the property and we are enthralled with stories about the life of a whaler.
We head down the road to the lovely seaside community of Mangonui for an ice cream and a slow stroll out to the wharf where many families were catching fish. There is also a great little art gallery there and shops to enjoy.
Next stop for us is Taipa and the Taipa Beach Resort. We are so close to the beach you can hear the waves lapping on the shore. If you feel like going in for a dip ( I usually do) this is the place. Or alternatively you can use the resort pool. We are spoiled on our tours!