Beautiful brekky at the lodge, back up the road to say goodbye to the crew and pump through a little petrol for the Odyssey as we had run ourselves a little short. Hugs and goodbyes complete we made our way back out from a very special place.
We had been given a tip about Laurens Lavender Cafe. On highway 43, the forgotten world highway through to Whanamomona and then Stratford. The reception was very friendly and the coffee good. Only problem being the rain that decided to bucket down as soon as we arrived and the lavender not having managed to flower as of yet. We are going to try to revisit a little later in the trip.
Speaking to some locals who were at the cafe about the best way through to New Plymouth led us to staying on 43. It is the 'long and winding road' that has been the subject of many a song. Very scenic and worth a look but possibly not the best idea with three kids and a deadline. We had to be in New Plymouth in time to check out The Bach at Breakwater. It was Sunday and the cafe is closed Monday/Tuesday so we had to push on. Going past Mt Taranaki/Egmont was a highlight as it emerged from behind a curtain of cloud.
We arrived at The Belt Rd Holiday Park and were very pleased to have a comfy bed and a veiw out to sea. Great facilities and a chance to catch up on washing and work.
After settling in we went down to The Bach on Breakwater, it was choca and we were pretty tired by this point. Barbara was there with the family including her two day old newest grandchild. Very kindly she took the time to have a quick chat to me and Matthew had a chance to take some photos. We were unable to stay for dinner but checked out the daytime menu that had lots of goodlooking cafe food. The numbers of people present and the food we saw passing made it an easy inclusion in the book.
Back at the Belt Rd Holiday Park and a phone call from Dan with a new possibility. We are to go jetboating up the Whanganui River on Wednesday with Brent and Claire from Spirit of the River Jet. Into another unusual 'cafe' run by the new Mayor of Whanganui. It is the Flying Fox which is accomodation, organic produce and 'cafe' for those travelling on the river. Can't wait.
All in for a good nights sleep listening to the sea. Night night.
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