The Prints of Tides

Yup, still doin' the travelogue.
If you don't like gorgeous beach and surf shots, better go visit someone else today!

Anne and John's house is in a quaint little town called Onemana, on the Coromandel Peninsula. It is a long and winding drive, no freeways on this route! There is only one road into Onemana, so it is very quiet, even at the height of summer. Their house sits on a steep section and you can see the ocean from their front deck. Every morning, they go for a walk on the beach. They often scavenge driftwood for their garden decor. 

Our first night at the house was stormy, but we awoke to almost clear skies, so we walked. I had planned to run, but had managed to catch Anne's cold.

Top o'the morning to yeh!

There they go, over the soggy grass.
Did I mention that my sister no longer wears a watch?

It was a little hazy when we started out...

...but things cleared up quickly.

I love the Norfolk pines that are ubiquitous in new Zealand.

Beach art!

The heavy rain had cut a channel through the sand and we got a little wet.

This giant pohutakawa tree seems menacingly close to the house next to John and Anne's place, but city regulations forbid its removal.

This one is in front of the same house and I believe it is about 400 years old. The pohutakawa is also known as the New Zealand Christmas tree. It is tough and adaptable and thrives in the difficult environment of the coast. This article tells more, if you're interested.

Roll on, deep and dark blue ocean, roll.
Ten thousand fleets sweep over thee in vain.
Man marks the earth with ruin,
but his control stops with the shore.
                                                                                                      Lord Byron.