I have just got back from Paihia, the bay of islands, in the north of the north island. Luckily the sun shone for me! We arrived at midday and I went out on a boat that afternoon around the islands. The boat took us to, and through, 'the hole in the rock' which is unsurprisingly a hole in one of the islands. It also dropped us off at one of the islands where I went for a walk up to a lookout point for stunning views (photos to come). Then I sat on the beach with a piece of cake to counteract my walking!!! However the highlight was definitely seeing lots of killer whales. There was a big group of them including a mum and her calves and they got right up close to the boat, one even swam under, it was amazing! Unfortunately I only have pictures of their fins, although we did see a lot more of them than that!
That evening I had a BBQ at the hostel. This morning I went for a walk along the coast. On the way it was more rock climbing than walking, but on the way back the tide had gone out so it was a much easier walk. However it was worth it for the beautiful views. The bus didn't leave until 3 so I then had time to go and sit on the beach with my book which was nice. I got back to Auckland this evening and leave in the morning to go down south. I met some nice people, but unfortunately most of those on the bus were heading up to the very top of the island, and therefore staying a few more days so I went on the boat trip and walk alone. I'm hoping that heading south I will stick mostly with the same people as there are not any options to add on an extra trip until later. We shall see, but I am enjoying myself none the less!