Day fifty-three was a beautifully fine day. We drove from Hicks Bay to Te Araroa and on to East Cape. The road is narrow but a great drive. We arrived at the lighthouse area and Don, Gloria, Mort and Weldon climbed the 750 steps to the lighthouse. It was well worth the effort as the views were spectacular. The climb down was harder on the body as you were over stepping and being careful on the slippery steps. We the drove back to Te Araroa for lunch.
After lunch we drove on to Tikitiki and stopped at St Marys' Church. This building should not be missed. It has fantastic carvings, tukutuku woven panels and paintings. The stained glass windows are beautiful, the pulpit is carefully carved and the rafter patterns fantastic. The baptismal font was a very old carving.
We drove into Ruatoria and managed to get water. The town has a bad name but the people were very friendly and helpful. The bad name doesn't seem deserved. Then we drove on to join the others at Waipiro Bay for the night. Unfortunately there was no fishing allowed.
East Cape lighthouse in the distance
That climb up the steps
Almost at the top
Resting at the last few steps
We made it and enjoying the views
East Cape lighthouse
That water tastes good after the climb!
Resting and holding up the lighthouse
Entrance St Mary's Chuch, Tikitiki
Stained glass windows
The carved pulpit
The alter and stained glass window
Baptismal font - carved 1836
The bell tower
Monument on hill
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