Bay of Islands: Two

Friday part two

We arrived in Paihia mid afternoon after a scenic drive; it sits on a beautiful bay with views out onto the Bay of Islands.  It is rather like a small, French, Mediterranean seaside town - classy rather than kiss me quick.   We shopped for basics - wine, beer, etc. as the next place, like most we have booked, have mini kitchens (toaster and microwave in this one) and tried to find our accommodation.  This proved a disaster area as we could find the little road above Paihai but not the house.  We rang the owner but his instructions sent us down the most scary, vertiginous road I have ever seen (forget Hard Knott Pass or that place in the Wye Valley that L4 could not drive up - this was seriously steep).  We found his house but not ours and he was not in.  Grumpy and fed up we returned to town (only about 1.5km away) for tea in shore cafe/bar.  This went one step beyond the slouchy leather sofas - beds!!!  see picture.  It wasn't cold but if it was there are blankets.....

Two hours after attempt one we gained access to "seashells", our very luxurious appartment. 

We are now planning the next two days....