We stayed a couple of nights at New Plymouth, and thought it was a really nice small city.We stayed at Belt Road Holiday Park which is about 1.5km south of the city centre and on the cliff edge.We had amazing views of the coast from our van windows, and Graham spent much time watching the boats launching at the port.It was definitely worth the $32 (about 15GBP) a night for this and the family that run it were very friendly.Saying that, I think that most people we have met have been very friendly - even the teenage skateboarders thanked us for moving out of their way!

We did the coastal walk, which started right next to our van, just down the cliff, and it was great.The weather was perfect - clear blue skies and bright sunshine.We then took the Te Henui walkway, which follows the Te Henui stream in land.There were few people around, so the bird life was abundant, and we spent ages watching the Fantails.They look so clumsy, as they flutter like a butterfly, and seem to be very curious, as they fly up to you so close that you think they are going to land on you.We then walked into the town centre and went for a smorgasbord late lunch, as we were pretty hungry after all that walking!So, if you're in New Plymouth on a budget, go to Sunworld Chinese Restaurant for lunch.It's a bit rough around the edges, but for $9.90 each (about 4.50GBP) it's great to fill up, and it's not just Chinese food.

We then walked back along the coastal pathway to our campsite, and for the first time used our outdoor chairs to sit outside in the sun and look at the amazing view.

Maggie x