Coddiwomple Stardate 171113

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Got our first Stray Bus today and have already changed our plans. We were going to stay at Thames named by Captain Cook because the river reminded him of Thames River in London. 60% of NZ's bottled water comes from this river but the lower reaches does look like the Thames in London very murky. We couldn't find much to occupy ourselves there the walk I wanted to do is closed until 20th December due to flood damage. So our driver Nat said we could keep going with her to Hahei which we decided to do. Then half way to Hahei we decided to keep on this bus for the next 22 days travelling both North & South island and see what happens. We probably change our mind again. At least now Sharon has 38 more people to talk to. (Funny bugger aren't you!!)

We arrived at Hahei about 12.00pm booked in for our dorm room ( first group of fellow travellers walked in and mentioned we snore...they all walked out!!!  The next lot we offered earplugs, they stayed!!) and went for a walk down the beach. Came across an unusual scene someone driving their boat into the water from the beach. No boat ramps required in this country. Then back for a BBQ organised by our driver which was very tasty.

Went down onto Hahei beach this morning to watch the sunrise Sharon was still snoring (Lies) so I left her there with the other 5 in our room sleeping. So I was blessed with a magnificent sunrise. Once back we were on the bus to the Hot Water Beach you have to be there on low tide to reach the hot areas. Once there we all found a nice hot part of the beach and started digging. It is a unique experience on this beach. Basically you wiggle your toes until you get to water...if you can stand it for 15 sec...start digging, if you cant you move a little further and try again.  Moving in any direction can be warm to unbearably hot. We all had an excellent time.

Once back to the lodge Sharon and I walked to Cathedral Cove where they had one scene filmed there for Nania ( Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe & Prince Caspian). Where the 4 children started off in the underground of England then are transported to a cave on the beach that's where we were. This was an absolutely gorgeous walk every turn a photo opportunity.



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