A trip around East Cape

We explored many places off the beaten track - and some tracks were pretty basic

But others were quite beautiful and restful - good for the soul.

Even in the odd shower, there was beauty to be seen

Waterfalls were tucked away in all sorts of remote places

The trees had been there quite a while

Even growing out of solid rock - one would wonder how they survived.

Roadside pools reflecting the surrounding shrubbery

Or the manmade structures - which were remarkably in good order considering the negligible population

The wildlife were tolerant of humans, since they would see so few, and kept an eye on us.

Some areas had masses of gorse. Pretty, but awfully illegal

Stayed on a variety of Motels. This one at Tolaga Bay was VERY informal - neat !!

Decided not to stay at this one - dining room below standard .........

As you can guess, have always been fascinated by old abandoned houses

And another one

Not only were the houses old - this was part of the Tolaga Bay jetty

BUT - it looked MUCH better at 5 a.m. in the morning.

This 660 metre long jetty, the longest in New Zealand, is being restored, which is a great effort for a town of only 600 people.

Other jetties around the Cape were not so well preserved, but great for photographers !!

Tiny settlements dotted around the Cape reached by narrow twisting roads through interminable hills, but each one with miles of stunning beaches

Summer, yet not a soul in sight.  Imagine this in Hong Kong !!!!

Total solitude. Brilliant.