Continuing our drive north through Whangarei and Kawakawa we twisted our way round to the Bay of Islands and set up camp by the estuary in Paihia. A stunning setting right on the river with mangroves at our tent door. Our first kiwi BBQ then into the village for drinks. A strange pub, couldn't move for mullets and what we thought was karaoke was actually a hired band! Stealing ourselves away from the chip fat and hicks we found a 'trendy' bar for cocktails, although the DJ had no idea what RPM drum and bass should be played at.

Watties baked beans and left over sausages for breakfast then down to the pictoresque bay for a spot of sea kayaking through the crystal clear waters around the islands and their reefs, set only a kilometre or so out to sea. The joys of camping out hit home that evening as the milkyway soared over our heads with the waves lapping the banks just touching distance away.