Sunday 25 October: Kauris and Kiwis
Today was our introduction to the amazing New Zealand Kauri trees when we stopped on our way north to do a little Kauri bush walk. It was here that Sue cuddled her first Kauri. It is impossible to do justice to the size of these trees with a photograph. They are enormous.
After that we went ands climbed Tokatoka hill - a short steep climb to a viewpoint.
Then we headed north, destination Trounson Kauri park. We were aiming for a Daprtment of Conservation Campsite here which we had heard was good - there were also guided tours on offer to find Kiwis. However, on arrival we didn't like the DOC camp so went down the road to the Top 10 campsite which was much better (and actually it was from there the Kiwi walks went anyway). We treated ourselves to the confort of a chalet for the night. Very nice.
We went on the nighttime guided tour to look for Kiwis (which lasted about 2 hours) but didn't see any. Shame.
Note that in that last picture I am admiring the tree, not looking for Kiwis! (In case you thought that would explain why we didn't see any.)
Golden Nugget: