Made a day trip northwards from our base in Russell to Totara North, which is located on the Whangaroa Harbour, to go on a botanic walk. Gill was not feeling well with a heavy cold so she stayed in Russell.

Arrived at the tiny backwater hamlet of Totara North hoping, but failing, to find a cafe. This place is remote and a long way from the usual tourist destinations. So, perfect for seeing NZ's nature at its best.

Our guide for the day, Tony Foster, is the author of several books on NZ flora and fauna. We met him as arranged at the jetty and we were soon walking along the Wairakau stream track with Tony leading the way. In Tony's expert hands we were learnt how to spot and correctly identify a number of the many plants that are native to NZ. The education didn't stop with flora and fauna; we also benefited from Tony's knowledge and opinions of NZ's culture, history and politics. Our walk ended at Lane Cove on the Whangaroa Harbour from where Tony took us on an exhilarating motor boat ride back to Totara North. A great day out.