Links! Links! Links!

"Oops..!" That was the approximate dialogue between me and Tine in our first kilometers in the camper. Actually, it's not that easy to escape the usual routine of driving, especially on the preferred lanes.

So since yesterday, we're finally on the road! Our first stop took us to Paihia. A small popular tourist destination on our main goal "Cape Reinga".

On the way there, we made a little detour to the "Piroa Falls". A super beautiful little waterfall that can be reached via a well-constructed path. Absolutely worth seeing.

Arriving in Paihia, we tried to find a restaurant to go to, but we didn't succeed. 🙄 After all, it's Christmas, and most establishments only offer a pre-ordered Christmas menu. So off to the supermarket. Stocked up with groceries, we decided to continue driving to the "Aroha Island Center" campground. The special thing about this place: you have the opportunity to see kiwis! When we arrived at the campground, the nice owner told us that there are exactly two kiwis on the premises. We didn't manage to see one though. Nevertheless, a super nice place!

This morning, we started early. We had a lot to do. Starting with Lake Rotopokaka, which is nicknamed "Cocacola Lake". Totally crazy. The whole lake actually has the color as if someone poured liters of cola into it.

Then we went to "Te Paki". Huge sand dunes that give the impression of arriving in the desert. In complete contrast to the green, lush plants and trees directly adjacent. So if you want to know what it's like to be sandblasted, you have to go there. The really strong wind blowing from the sea ensures that.

Our last stop for today was "Cape Reinga". What can I say? If you're planning a trip to New Zealand, you can hardly miss it.

Why? Take a look at the pictures. Absolutely stunning!

We have now arrived at a nice campground on our way to our next stop. The next blog post will reveal where that is. For today, it's time to relax and enjoy a well-deserved after-work beer. Tomorrow, we'll hit the road again.

Greetings from Pukenui, Thorsten and Tine

Ps. I will attach the remaining pictures tomorrow. Currently, my Wi-Fi connection doesn't allow it properly.