Yesterday’s forecast was for periods of heavy rain, but what we actually had was more like a light drizzle off and on throughout the day. We still took it easy, going for a short walk to check out the beach, but otherwise relaxing in the apartment and enjoying our private hot tub. And packing for today’s drive to Whitianga.

The forecast said the rain would be largely over by this morning. It was wrong. The heavy rain forecast for yesterday arrived today, and lasted for the full duration of our drive. The roads in the Coromandel are narrow and winding, along the edge of steep cliffs. We saw regular evidence of slips that had closed the roads after the last heavy rain. It was not a relaxing drive! But we arrived safely, and then the rain stopped … shortly after we brought our luggage into the room, of course.

But I’m getting ahead of myself. As we were leaving Waihi Beach, we passed a local Saturday farmer’s market, and decided to check it out. Fortunately it was indoors, as the rain was starting to get heavy. The market was small, but well worth a visit. We chatted with the very friendly locals as we decided what to buy.

We couldn’t resist the local avocados – six avocados for $5 NZD.

We are staying in a small house in Whitianga, and coincidentally there is an avocado tree in the garden. Unfortunately, not for us to pick.

Here is another tree in the garden.

I’ve discovered a new brewer in New Zealand that is fast becoming my favourite New Zealand brewery. I’m sampling another of their excellent beers as I write this.