Rustic Rabbit day 1

Waitangi Day started off leisurely with a good sleep-in, but soon became a flurry of activity. I tackled the housework, baked cookies, and made jalapeno jam before prepping for the Resolvit fly spray team coming tomorrow while we're away. The heat hit hard, leaving me feeling unwell, so I cooled off with a cold flannel.
Things took a turn when I drove my car onto the empty section for Neil to move the motorhome, but CRUNCH—I side-swiped the electric gate control panel and the gate! Luckily, Neil is handy and fixed it, though I felt terrible about it.

We took a quick drive to Matamata for Neil to check on The Warehouse's sound system. Strangely, the issue resolved itself before we arrived, making it a brief stop. Luckily, The Warehouse will still pay Neil for his time and cover fuel costs—a win-win!

Our next stop was the Te Aroha dog park, conveniently situated next to the NZMCA park, and let the dogs have a good run. Several other dogs showed up, making it a fun time for everyone. Neil struck up a conversation with a couple who were towing a late model Suzuki Jimny behind their camper.

Now, we're at a POP site in Te Aroha, returning to the welcoming spot where we stayed a few weeks ago. We’ve become good friends with Jen and Craig, and their puppy, Maggie, has become fast friends with our dogs. The site is nestled among lush fruit trees—plums, apples, nectarines, peaches, nashi pears, and a hedge of feijoas. Every step releases a sweet, fragrant burst of fruit! This time, we've brought our gumboots to join in the milking action. The dogs are completely at ease here and didn’t need to be tied up, especially after we spent the evening puppy-sitting Maggie, keeping Diesel and Marley happily entertained. I'm sure they’ll sleep soundly tonight!Read more