We picked up our campervan from the rental place. It was cheap and functional. Though we did have moments of campervan envy along the trip – but we’ll get to that later. There seemed like a lot to pack, but it all fitted in easily enough.
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And off we went heading North. First stop was the town of Silverdale. Then we drove eastwards along a sticky out piece of land going through Manly and Gulf Harbour. There was a Big Manly beach and a Little Many Beach. Gulf Harbours seems to be in townhouse generation mode. Really ugly architecture. Such a shame.
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Waiwere allowed for a beach walk. This town has hot springs and a ‘Waiwere Infinity Thermal Resort & Spa’ was available. Think Warmbaths (SA people).
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Popped into Puhoi and the cheese shop. These people make good cheese. But the cheese shop was quite a let down. The Library was the cutest! A teeny little four walled place. And the general store was as quaint as it should have been. A stop at ‘Puhoi Cottage’; New Zealand’s oldest tea room for Devonshire Tea. The scones were enormous and fresh and crumbly. The berry jam and cream delectable. We shared the space with low hanging trees and farm animals in the background.
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A drive through Warkworth led us to Snells Beach and then Martins Bay. Martins Bay held our campsite for the next two nights. It was a large site. Very large. Very many kids. We had a site up on a ridge overlooking some of the other sites and the beach below. Such a beautiful beach. Long enough for a decent walk. We settled for cheese and biscuits and left over lunch (Noodle Canteen) for supper. There were a number of duck families happily wandering through the camp site feasting on scraps. And the obligatory cows on the hill behind us.
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Day 1: about 150km travelled.
Notes on campervan hire:
- Tinted windows are the best. Allows for a clothing change anytime and anyplace. Perfect for an impromptu sea swim or hike.
- Cup holders would have been nice. Really missed having these. It’s the little things….
- The queen sized bed was spacious (considering we were in a van) and was set up in such a way that one person’s feet could dangle over the edge (useful when you are around the 6 foot mark).
- Having enough head room to stand upright would have made life a lot more comfortable, but we managed
- Gas cooker plates in the van were wonderful.
- The best thing – having a fridge in the van. This allowed for cold drinks at any point. Perfect after a walk or on the beach. Also being able to travel with food in the fridge. Leftovers for ad hoc travel snacks.
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