East Cape

We’re slipping into the pace of the place (not that we were in need of much deceleration, having been on the road for 18 months, but…). This is a special part of the country, from Gisborne via Loisel’s Beach and Maraehako to Ohiwa Beach.

In hindsight, it feels like there’s a point somewhere around the Cape, beyond which there’s no return from being enveloped in the greatness of it all. Beyond which you don’t believe there can be another day as chilled as the day before. Loisel’s Beach is the perfect spot to ease into it all, where you can rest and recharge. Waihau Bay is such a sleepy place; all we can do here is watch the water and eat ice cream. Maraehako is just a dream.

The kids are content in this environment, and I hope they’ve connected to this place in an instinctual way. I hope this has become one of their happy places, a care-free memory they can draw from if need be, and cherish and build upon.

Anaura Bay

Tokomaru Bay

Te Araroa

Waihau Bay/Orete point

Whakatane, Ohiwa and Ohope Beach