Up early to feed kids, do schoolwork, and pack. Borrowed a cool box for Gwyn - the one piece of equipment that we were really missing! Left at 10.30, once Gwyn was back from her work-out! Attempted to drive to the rental car depot, but managed to miss the turning twice, and ended up taking 40 mins to do a 15 min journey! Gave back the equipment that had been left in the car, and failed to get the radio fixed! Drove out of Auckland, heading south on the State highway 1.

Pulled over at a service station once we had left the city, to check map, and to decide on a destination. J upset, as he had accidentally deleted all of his photos & videos whilst playing with his camera. Now we all know what "format disk" means!

Drove on until Rangiriri, the site of a Maori v British battle, where the Maori successfully defended a redoubt against 3:1 (plus) odds, until confusion about the meaning of a white ensign flag flying on one of the British ships caused them to surrender, by accident! Useful information board at the battle's graveyard, in town.

Then tried to find a bird sanctuary at Lake Waikare, but were unsuccessful! Continued south to Hamilton, where we stocked up on groceries @ Pack'n'Save. Ate a late lunch at the side of Lake Rotoroa in Hamilton, surrounded by ducks & Pukkekos.

Continued south to Otorohanga, and checked out the campsite, but too expensive, and no cutlery! Ended up in Te Kuiti, in a nice cabin with double bunkbeds, and an oven in the kitchen! Roasted chicken, and made a stir fry!

M managed to fall over a speed bump & needed plasters on both knee and hand, and a lot of sympathy!