Oakura Update

So a week now housesitting in lovely Ōakura. Bit wet today for dog walks to the beach or park so taking time to write an update here. Ōakura is on the coast about 15 mins drive from New Plymouth in the Taranaki area that sticks out on the west side of the North Island, about 2/3 of the way down. Dominated by the mountain itself which rises Fuji like from the plain. Big dairy farming area, with rich soils. 

Ōakura top left

Sorley and Elvis on Ōakura Beach

My niece Maddy in her element riding along the sand.

View inland towards the Kaitakes where Nick and I walked the trap line

For the architecture fans. There's quite a range of style here.

Ōakura is becoming quite a desirable place to live. There's a thriving surf scene here. Lovely cafe called Dawn in an old church where I met my cousin Kate for a catch up the other day. She lives nearby.

I've had a couple of trips into New Plymouth and spent a few hours in the Puke Ariki museum. 

This counting staircase caught my attention.

And on Friday night Ben and I went to see the Taranaki Bulls rugby union team in action in an impressive 38 - 24 win over Hawkes Bay. (See video of the mascot!)

Lots of windfall grapefruit in the garden to make fresh juice with!

Bulls mascot

Birdsong in Matekai Park