Happy start to 2012!

After a busy December and Christmas time, we headed north to Rosemary's house. Although Rosemary wasn't there, she was kind enough to leave keys out for us and we use the place as a holiday home for a week. The first few days were wet, so we took advantage of this and stayed in our PJs! We enjoyed the relaxing time and meals over looking the harbour.

As the weather improved and we got cabin fever, we headed out and about to explore the area.

First stop was the village of Mangonui for a wander around the waterfront and little shops.

Then, it was on to Kerikeri to see the Rainbow falls and walk along the river to the Stone Store and Kemp House.

The Rainbow warrior memorial was the next on our list of places to visit and explore. It was a slow and steep walk to the top, but well with it for the views (and ice cream when we got to the bottom!).

We couldn't come to northland without a hug of a kauri tree...

...and a plate of ribs to share at the Tex Mex Diner when Rosemary returned!

We had a few days back in Auckland before Gareth started his new job, so we had a combination of days sorting things out in the house and getting out and about. The annual sculpture exhibition at the botanical gardens was great and we enjoyed a picnic lunch under the shady trees.

Sunday lunch in Takapuna was followed by a walk on the beach.

And the sorting out involved trying out the new baby sling with a teddy :-)

(sling is pretty high as it wouldn't go over the bump!)

So, Monday 9th January was a big change for us both - Gareth starting his new job as Infrastructure Manager at Auckland Transport and Hannah starting maternity leave. Gareth has a bare office to fill and Hannah has lines and lines of washing!