Auckland
We are approaching the most important city in New Zealand.
Traffic is dense, but not congested.
We decide to visit the "Botanic Garden" located just out of town
.
It stretches over 64 hectares and houses more than 10,000 plants. This public garden opened in 1982 contains a number of species that are endemic, but there are also camellias, conifers, magnolias, edible species, palm trees, an African garden and many more.
Inside, several hikes are proposed. We choose the one of sculptures and statues that snake in all theme gardens.
Leaving the garden, we have a hard time finding a spot for the night. We absolutely want to avoid going through the city center.
Finally we find a parking close to a stadium where campers are allowed.
Putorokoro
We leave our bivouac this morning to the " Pukorokoro Miranda Shorebird "
It is a paradise for lovers of birds and nature. This coastal refuge is known for its thriving migratory bird population, including grouse and teal.
Visitors can observe these elegant birds up close in their natural habitat, especially during their annual migration from the Arctic region to the southern hemisphere.
With stunning views of the river estuary and peaceful surroundings, it is a peaceful spot for bird watching and photography.
We are not in the right season, but we can see very far away some colonies of birds.
Near the center a huge spot for camper awaits us!
Nice evening at " Firth Of Thames "
Amodeo
It’s a day off after visiting "Cathedral Cove".
This hike offers spectacular views of the pristine waters of the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve. The coastal section is framed by native phutukawa trees
The trail descends sharply towards the beaches of Mares Leg Cove and Mautohe Cathedral Cove. It ends at the beach of Mares Leg Cove, where we can admire the rocky arch.
Way back to the car park by the same way and direction " Amodeo " to settle at the campsite.
This is not an ordinary campsite ... but rather a meeting place for fishermen who own small houses throughout the year ... Not very glamorous!
Tairua
Always under the sun we go up north along the coast.
A first stop takes us to the Owharoa Falls and Karangahake Gorge.
The stepped waterfall falls in cascade on the rocky face, making a beautiful waterfall that changes according to its flow.
Once again, the parking lot of the "Gorges" is full which prevents us from hiking. An 8 m long motorhome can be a handicap to move or park!
A second stop takes us to the beach of "Onmana" : an extensive sea view and a glimpse of the offshore islands. Once arrived at the shore, the bay is revealed - beautiful golden sands surrounded by splendid villas ... a haven of peace.
Then we arrive at our evening bivouac by the ocean in " Tairua " A small seaside town with its twin peaks of Mount Paku that guard the entrance to the port.
We walk to the top of the mountain which offers a 360-degree view of the Aldermen Islands and the Pinnacles in the Coromandel Forest Park. A very steep and exhausting climb
Waihi Beach
Finally the sun comes back ...
We leave the campsite late, after working on the site and photos ... We are still dependent on electricity.
We drive along the coast of the "Bay of Plenty" known for swimming, fishing and surfing.
A short stop at "Katikati"
Village known for its heritage, murals, lawyers and kiwis. It was founded by Ulster settlers in Ireland, but the district was populated by Maoris well before the arrival of the Europeans
Before landing we buy a "Fish and Chips" in the very popular small town of "Waihi Beach".
In the afternoon we hike along the cliff for 2 hours discovering several coves that make us think of the "Brittany".
Quiet evening by the ocean.
Sapphir Spring
The weather is not improving ... We continue our drive north.
In addition to the bad weather, we encounter a huge traffic jam. The road is blocked in both directions.
The authorities put in place a detour that goes through small roads ... A real pain!
We are in the area of "Kiwis", where we wanted to visit a plantation ... Several advertisements along the road invite us ... But we can’t find them ....
We spend the afternoon in the rain, working on the site and the film.
Matata
It is raining and the weather forecast still does not show any improvement.
We are changing our schedule to reach the Pacific coast.
Initially we were to hike the "Tongariro Alpine Crossing". Its reputation is based on the beauty and variety of its course.
The circuit crosses an alpine desert, winds through volcanoes, descends into a crater, goes around emerald lakes, along burning springs and ends in a virgin forest.
The total distance to be covered is approximately 19.4 km. A journey that must be completed in one day. For most people, it will take almost seven hours.
The Tongariro is both the name of the first national park created in New Zealand and the name of a volcano, located in New Zealand, in the center of the North Island.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The park is under DOC control and has many sacred sites for Maori.
We are very disappointed and we can not wait 3 to 4 days for a favorable weather.
We drive all morning before arriving at our bivouac, where the weather is still rainy. We walk along the immense beach.
A little rest by the ocean is nice.
ROAD BOOK 209
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MAVROS ODYSSEE
