23 January 2011

Kerikeri and Opua

There was a powercut overnight and much rain to listen to too. We awoke and started to make plans. Breakfast was plan number one that was thwarted by another power cut. Not to worry a walk around town later and the power was back on and we had an idea of the cafe scene.

We drove to Paihia with the intention of finding a great cafe. Not to be. For a town that has so many tourists the cafe scene is dismal. Not one to be found. We did stop at Hururu falls where Ruby slid in the mud like a lady and handled the muddy bum with grace. The volume of water was huge and we spared a thought for the campers who were obviously underwater down river.

After some great advice from the lingere shop we went to the cafe at the Marina in Opua. A nice discovery with very good coffee and a mean homemade pie. Back through Moerewa and Kawakawa stopping in the best known cafes for a look. Nothing that was enough to make us stop for any length of time.

So glad we kept on going because one of the gems of the trip was not far away. Food at Wharepuke is on the left as you head down to the Stone Store for an historical moment. This place is owned by Rachel and Colin and you MUST go there should you be in the area. In fact you should go to the area just to be at this cafe. The surroundings are beautiful, but the food, Ahh the food is to die for. Colin is a perfectionist with a long and often rockstar connected history with food. This food is a step above most we have come across. If you haven't noticed I am very very impressed. A great end to the day.

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