Day 34 - Whangarei

Life is always interesting. I got a call from my nephew Josh to ask if I wanted to go in his helicopter (not his personal one the company he works for) from the foreshore in Paihai back to the shed it is housed in. Thought long and hard - at least 30 seconds - yes I would love too. It was amazing. So quiet compared to the only other helicopter I have been in when we were at Mount Cook biking from there to Oamaru and they took us across the river, and our bikes separately.
It is awesome how it he can land in such a small space was amazing.
Frida - Josh's partner picked me up and took me back to my campervan and then back to their place and once again I was treated to their home cooked meal.
I had hoped to go flying again this morning with Josh but he had the morning off and I didn't want to go with another pilot or wait until this afternoon.
We had a lovely walk around Opua. There are some impressive boats moored.
It was time to bid them farewell and I was off on the car ferry to Russell.
I remember Mum and Dad's picture from when they were on their retirement holiday going on this and I thought it would be cool.
Cost $30 for maybe an 8 minute crossing. It was great. I wanted to take a picture but the movement of the boat was such that I felt safer inside the camper. Easy to get on and off and they seem to go ever 15 minutes. Ni waiting, no booking. Had a drive into Russell but didn't stop.
I wanted to go to Whangarei and but the GPS and Google Maps wanted me to go back on the ferry. I knew there was a coast road. After a couple of attempts and asking at the garage I got on the right road. It was lovely but challenging.
At Whangarei now.Read more