Left Russell today and drove to our next B&B at Omapere on the north west coast. Before leaving we again saw several of the flightless weka birds that are endemic to NZ. They appear to be quite at ease coming close to people in the hope of getting some food. In fact they are a bit of a nuisance! We also went up the hill from our B&B to see a flagstaff that has historical and symbolic significance concerning the early relations between the local Maori and...

Back to Russell after our day trip to Totara North. Invited by Oliver and Pip, our B&B hosts, around to their apartment for drinks and nibbles. Had a very enjoyable evening with them.

Up early for a busy day in and around the Bay of Islands starting with a "swim with the dolphins" boat trip. The skipper quickly found a pod of dolphins, decided that they were not in the mood to have us join them, and then found another pod that he thought could be up for it. By this point we had all changed into our swimming costumes and into the summer wet suits, goggles, snorkel and flippers supplied as part of the trip. So, into the water we all go. A totall...

Looked around downtown Russell. It didn't take long as the place is quite small. A pleasing variety of friendly, independent shops, an old church with some interesting gravestones, a pub, several cafes and restaurants and a very attractive waterfront. We were aware when planning our trip of the hole in ozone layer over NZ. After only a few days in the country I have indeed found the sun to be very harsh on my skin. Even with factor 50 sun cream on I am still get...

At the end of our long car journey from Auckland, we arrived at Opua, took the car ferry to Okiato, and then made the short drive to our B&B in Russell. As the house was up a hill and with an outlook across the Bay of Islands the views from our apartment were fabulous. Walked into Russell, a very attractive little place, and had a great meal at The Duke of Marlborough inn. The place was buzzing. The local firemen were holding their annual dinner event. Lots ...