Day 3

Another lazy start to the day—because why rush when you're on holiday? The morning kicked off in the best possible way: a delicious cooked breakfast with Jude. Fueled up and ready for some adventure (or at least some leisurely browsing), we decided it was time for a girls' morning. Off we went to Te Aroha, determined to explore every op shop in town. That didn't take long (Te Aroha, you are adorable but compact), but we still had a great time rummaging through treasures and checking out the sights.
Te Aroha is also home to renowned artist Adrian Worsley, known for his incredibly detailed sculptures crafted from scrap metal. His unique creations can be found throughout the town, adding a touch of artistic charm to its streets.
The afternoon was a slower affair. Jude enjoyed a nap while Neil and I sought refuge from the sun in the motorhome, happily buried in our books. Every now and then, I’d take a break from my book to blissfully spray myself with a hose—my own makeshift cooling system. Absolute heaven.
Then, at 3:50, duty called. I woke Jude from her nap (gently, of course), and on went the gumboots. It was milking time! As a seasoned pro (😁), I jumped straight in, and soon enough, Jude and I found our rhythm. Before we knew it, the cows were milked, and Neil volunteered to wash down the race with a fireman’s hose. Meanwhile, Craig gave us a crash course on removing and flushing the milking cups, preparing them for the next round of cow duty.
Just as we wrapped up, Steve and Carlene finally arrived, and it was time for well-earned drinks and nibbles with Craig and Jen. Then, as the sky turned dusky, we set out collecting twigs and pinecones for the outdoor fire. With flames flickering and laughter filling the air, we sat around, chatting and soaking up the warmth of the night—just the perfect way to end a day of simple joys.Read more