We have a cool campspot at Miranda between two hedges.
Before we reach Thames (good size little town) there is a long single lane bridge to cross -cars on each side get a light to go across. We have $5.00 Take away fish & chips in Thames.
It is a 12 km cycle to the DOC campground in the Kauaeranga Valley winding first through suburbs of Thames then winding up on a hilly country road. We have to avoid some herded big horn cattle on the way up. It is 4 km of gravel before finally reaching campsite which we initially have to ourselves. Woods are very thick with bush/trees so no free camping on the North Island.
A bird makes a whirring sound then slams into the side of our tent...raining, raining, raining. We pack up and staff at the Visitor Info Centre kindly gives us some boiling water for coffee to warm up. We have lunch in Thames (Subway) and run errands. As late we only stop outside Thames to stay at motorcamp (Butterfly Garden).
Motorcamps are interesting with little caravans (RV's) and cabins, good kitchen facilities and shower, flush toilets, laundry and TV room.
Meet a lady, Annie (permanent), a couple from UK and German family who are touring New Zealand by caravan for 5 months and then travelling to Australia.
Lovely cycle along coast, see some long neck birds gathered on rocks on beach and a huge tree with big broom like clumps hanging down. Before we reach Coromandel Town we have 3 big climbs, names I can't pronounce (except I am cursing the steepness as I am cycling or pushing my bike up) like Kurita Hill.
Nice motorcamp in Coromandel Town, walking distance to town. We get a BQ Chicken and some frozen vegs to cook for supper. Took photo of pretty little park and mosaic (children's faces painted) on side of public toilet.
The 15th we take as a rest day in the town. Viewed a couple galleries and chatted with locals.
Day 3 cycling - 37KM
Day4 cycling - 17KM
Day 5 cycling - 54KM
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