Wild west coast beaches

Neither of us had ever been to Raglan, so it seemed a good place to start exploring on our North Island odyssey.  Nothing we like better than a good long west coast beach walk on a sunny wintry afternoon.

There were such intriguing patterns in the sand made by the tide, volcanic rocks and beautiful vistas of bays with surf rolling in.

This hang glider looked to be having such fun swooping and soaring above us.  We waved cheerily, but got no response.

We walked further than intended, so we were treated to this gorgeous evening light at sunset as were returning. The locals had come out to play - whether that meant digging in the sand, riding a bikes or walking their dogs.

The sky turned pastel and the harbour so tranquil and peaceful as we returned to our campervan.  A fitting end to a great first day.