On to Ninety Mile Beach

We were really sorry to leave Russell and felt we could have enjoyed more time there exploring, but then I think thats what we are going to feel about a lot of places on our short trip to New Zealand. Onwards and upwards! it still didn't get rid of that "last day of the hols" feel. Caught the car ferry back at Opua and headed off North thro Paihia and along the coast, and later inland.We intend to travel thro Peketi forest, until we come to roadwork where we had a quick chat with the guy on the stop go sign. When we told him whwere we were heading he suggested that we turn around and follow the longer route along the coast. if we see him again we will buy him a beer. Go thro some spectacular countryside, eventually hitting a tiny seaside resort called Manganui North, where we stopped for coffee and a bit of shopping. Sat in glorious warm sun having our coffee! On a little further to Coopers Beach which is popular and pictuesque then on to Cable Beach where we stopped for lunch. Another lovely beach with rocky outcrops and big surf breaking over them.
We are heading for ninety mile beach and decide if it's not up to much we will go back somewhere near to Cable Beach.On arrival at 90 mile beach one look is enough to make our minds up to stay. Parked up and went for a look at the beach and guess what??? It's 90 miles long and full of sand! It is permitted to drive along it the full length, but we wouldn't chance it in our mobile buscuit tin and besides there is a sign warning of vehicles being cut off by the tide and to check your insurance for flood damage. From our van you could hear the surf crashing on the beach and we could see the sea if we stood on tiptoe, tho we were only 10 mins away. Lovely.