All good things must come to an end as we surely know and we woke up today knowing that our wonderful trip across the length and breadth of both islands of New Zealand was almost at an end. We will take a wealth of memories away with us of the stunning places we have seen, the marvellous places we have stayed and the wonderful people we have met along the way. Not forgetting all the excellent food and wines we have tasted, and there have been many thrilling experiences too, as readers of this blog will know, and we have the photos to prove it!

We were very happy the the sun shone for us on our last day and we spent the morning finishing up a few bits and pieces whilst admiring the views across the vineyards. We took a drive just along the road to Buckleton beach. What a lovely little place it is and we were not surprised to find that quite a few people have decided to make it the spot for their 'get away from it all' holiday home.

We went back to Morris and James pottery and spoiled ourselves with a couple of their bright, colourful serving plates before returning to the Matakana Village Kitchen where we both indulged in a huge bacon and egg doorstep sandwich for lunch. Very yummy and we have to say that we now know of two places in New Zealand where they serve great bacon!!

After leaving Takatu Lodge in the afternoon we drove back over to Coatesville to have a final visit with Mike and Gay. We have said a final goodbye to those guys so many times on this trip it is unreal! Wendy's paw was much recovered from yesterday and so she was able to give us a real, full on, licky welcome!

After a great 'last supper' with Mike and Gay it really was, finally, time to say a last goodbye and leave for the hour's drive to the airport where we returned the car and checked in for our 11.59pm flight. It was lovely to end our long visit in the company of friends and now it's time to say Goodbye, New Zealand! We really have had the most wonderful time here and, don't forget, we WILL be back!!!