From the Coromandel, we headed away from the endless beaches to Hamilton, enjoyed a lovely Valentine's Day dinner in the downtown, walked along the river, and listened to jazz in the gorgeous Hamilton Gardens (with roses and flowers in full bloom!).
We then headed west to check out the black beaches of Raglan and watch surfers ride the waves alongside the volcanic rocks lining the shore. One paddle boarder even thought to drag his dog out into the waves with him in an attempt to wear him out for the day - though we thought the dog would be exhausted, we heard him come ashore with the comment, it won't be enough to tire him out.
We then drove back eastward to Pirongia, a small town south of Hamilton for a little taste of Austria hidden in the rural New Zealand landscape. We reconnected with friends after 20+ years, watched some olympic skiing, and tried on fun colorful hats before heading out for the east.
The Waikato River running from Lake Taupo through Hamilton
The Hamilton Gardens
One of the many bridges crossing the river (and one of Sonja's favorites)
We then headed west to check out the black beaches of Raglan and watch surfers ride the waves alongside the volcanic rocks lining the shore. One paddle boarder even thought to drag his dog out into the waves with him in an attempt to wear him out for the day - though we thought the dog would be exhausted, we heard him come ashore with the comment, it won't be enough to tire him out.
Raglan Beaches at Manu Bay
We then drove back eastward to Pirongia, a small town south of Hamilton for a little taste of Austria hidden in the rural New Zealand landscape. We reconnected with friends after 20+ years, watched some olympic skiing, and tried on fun colorful hats before heading out for the east.
Hat Blocks! (most of which were made by Peter)
Hats with Monkia and Jennifer
For complete photo collection, visit the NZ ALBUM
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