DAY TEN --2ND SEPTEMBER -- OTORONGA  TO   NEW PLYMOUTH

And hereby hangs a tale! As the Kiwi centre we were to visit didn't open until 10a.m Gary stoped at a small bakery for a coffee. We have all been sharing cakes when we stop and often cut them in four! Helen asked the shopkeeper could he cut the arms off the gingerbread man please (making it easier to split up). taking it literally he cut the arms off and served us the cookie without arms! Helen had to go back and ask for the arms but they had been thrown away so......he cut the arms of another one and gave them to us! 

Stopping on the road to get this shot the cows though we would feed them and ran to the car! at this time of year everything is green but not a lot of flowers.....except for some very old and magnificent magnolias everywhere.

Now to the Kiwi house. Disappointed at first because we couldn't see one (they turn day into night in the enclosure), we later watched as one foraged around and ate its breakfast. This centre breeds them as of course the are rapidly losing numbers in the wild.

send two men to get a photo and what do you get???

Leftover chicken and bread from last night meant we made sandwiches for lunch an this lovely spot where river meets sea was where we stopped for lunch. the countryside is green and even small farms have a few sheep/cattle or goats. Apparently some of the local butchers here will "fully prepare" your meat for you. 

Typical countryside to day often with some steeper forested area (but even then sheep and goats on the hillsides). 

Next through New Plymouth and on the Georges BNB......stunning views and a lovely house to call home for the night!