So after a late start doing the mundane washing and prep work we got on the road about 11.30. The kids had been promised a surf beach to perfect their bodyboarding and we knew we had two cafes to look at. The road from Kerikeri to Rawene is a long and winding one and with my delusions of being Mika Hakanin (sp) the passengers were all feeling a little queasy on arrival. The last time I had been to Rawene Ruby was a toddler, Mika a little boy and I was blonde. My how things change. I have a photo of us with my good friend Trudi sitting in the Boat Shed cafe all those years ago.
Post nostalgia trip with the current crew we met the owners and had a rushed conversation and drink. They were very busy and we were aimming for the next ferry over to Kohukohu. We managed to get the story and the photos and Matthew was driving the car on to the ferry as I ran out the door to catch up having finalised the cafe. Great iconic spot. The food is simple but good, the coffee has always been a focus and the location is pretty special.
Wayne from Auckland had highly recommended our next stop. The Waterline Cafe in Kohukohu. We arrived hungry and a little growly from our rushed moments earlier. This place is again in a fantastic location and has alot of character. The cafe is the current project for Maryellen and the food and coffee was again fantastic. A highlight was Harley (sp). He is twelve and has the voice of an angel. Matthew had growled his way out to the car for something and returned with a serene disposition asking if we would all come outside for a moment. Grudgingly we did to find Harley waiting to sing to us. He busks around the North and lives in Kohukohu. Goosebumps!!! He sung an old hymn and then an Irish song he composed, wonderful. Not a grump in sight from any of us.
After doing our work at the cafe we were in need of a swim. Last time in the area I had boogy boarded down the sand dunes on this side of the harbour. We had gone there by boat. I asked if it was possible to get there by car and a local said yes about half an hour. I wonder how long she was laughing for as we departed. After about 1 1/2 hours traipsing through a logging area we gave up. Another local laughed at our attempt and suggested a four wheel drive may be more appropriate. Matthew had a ball being lost and we were all thrilled when we arrived at Mitimiti beach. Only ones on the beach and Ethan was introduced to boogy boarding and loved it. Being Rubys second attempt whe was the official pro and we all had a ball.
Long trip home arriving around 8.30pm. Another day done. We are home on friday...excited and dreading it...Night.
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