Day 12

After breakfast Gordon and Frances took me to Opua and across the harbour on the car ferry. They then took me about 18 km to the end of Waikare inlet and the start of Russell road. The Bay of Islands is so beautiful. Saw waka ama training, a guy on a horse with a flax pikau which seamed out of place. It is very gentrified and lots of development. The coast line is stunning. Russell road was a quiet metal road through Russell forest and very pleasant walking. Just as well I didn't want a hitch as I only saw 3:cars all going the other way. I passed a sign saying I was at the boundary of The Far North DC and Whangarei DC. I arrived at The Farm, a very eclectic place. It is trying to be a camp ground, has Woofers and is apparently a working farm as well. Gordon and Frances have been amazing. I still haven't sorted accommodation at Helena Bay so will just have to take the day as it comes. Good facilities at The Farm.

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