Rainy Whangerei

We spent our first day in Whangerei - a word we've stopped saying out loud because our pronunciation makes the locals chuckle. Because of our delay in getting to New Zealand, we only had one day to spend in the entire Northland. This was a lot easier to stomach since it was pouring rain the entire time.

We took an early morning hike to Abbey Caves which seemed like the driest outdoor activity we could do. We had to walk through field of cows to get there. The caves are known for their glow worms and crazy limestone formations. The caves are undeveloped and unguided. The only recommendations are that you have a flashlight and a buddy.

About the enter the first of the Abbey Caves.

All suited up in helmets and headlamps, we found that rain storms cause rivers of rushing water inside the caves. Luckily we were able to get far enough into one to see the glowworms. They looked like tiny green stars on the cave ceiling.

Despite the downpour and low visibility, we drove to the Tutukaka coast just for kicks. We could only stand about three minutes before the hurricane-like winds and sideways rain drove us back into the car. No beach dwellers today!

Matapouri Bay