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.

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 au...

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 ...