Day 286 (Thu 19 Apr) - Golden Owl, Karungahake Gorge

Left Coromandel town and drove to Whangapoua beach. On the way we stopped to admire the stunning view of islands.

Arrived at the beach and walked along it. We were trying to find a path to take us to New Chums beach but it was well hidden as we couldn't find it.

Drove on and stopped at Whitianga. Had a subway sandwich for lunch as we admired the fabulous view.

Continued to Hahei where we parked up and walked in search of Cathedral Cove. It was a beautiful walk through the countryside. Round every corner there was a stunning view.

Arrived at cathedral cove. It was so beautiful (1), (2), (3), (4), (5).

Reluctantly we left the cove and made our way back to the car park. As we walked we continued to admired the view of the sea through the trees.

Left Hahei and drove down the coast past Taitua and Whangamata. There wasn't anywhere obvious for us to stay but it was getting late so we stopped and Jo phoned up a backpackers place near by. They had vacancies so we made our way towards Karangahake Gorge and checked into the Golden Owl Lodge.

It was great we were the only ones there so we had a big room and a lovely living room with a fabulous wood burning stove. There was a kitchen too but as we didn't have any food we drove into Waihi and picked up a KFC. Drove back to lodge and ate our food which was pretty grim but greatly improved by a glass of wine and sitting next to the cosy fire.

Judy and John, the owners of the lodge, joined us for a few glasses of wine. Spent an enjoyable few hours drinking wine and chatting. Even Casper the cat made an appearance. Slightly squiffy, headed off to bed.