Kiwis in the North Island call their holiday homes baches. (Pronounced 'batches'). In the South Island, they're cribs.We enjoyed our first bach experience this weekend, when Husband, kids and I took a day off work and school, and took Nana to the Coromandel Peninsula to explore another part of New Zealand.
As Bach Virgins, we really weren't sure what to expect, so we were thrilled when our chosen beach house was even more gorgeous than it appeared online. Take a look at http://www.bookabach.co.nz/holiday_homes/dsp_listing.cfm?bachId=4911&kwt=New%20Perspective
The owner was delightful to deal with and gave us a really good last minute deal.
Set across from the beach on Thornton Bay, New Perspective was a rambling home, with a huge deck which was perfect for kicking back and enjoying the scenery. It had all the comforts of home and more, with lovely artwork on the walls, comfortable pillows and duvets (we brought our own linen), a well-stocked kitchen, fireplace and electric blankets (which we didn't need to use). There were even bean bags for the kids (which they did use!)
The nearby town of Thames was a good spot for bargain hunting, particularly the Saturday markets, where we picked up some local bread, raspberries, blueberry pie and other goodies for lunch.
The house and beach were so relaxing, we were happy to spend most of the weekend at our home away from home, wandering the beach, collecting shells, reading, and watching the world go by. The kids loved having a garden to play in again too.
All too soon, the weekend was over, but something tells me we'll be back ..
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.Collecting shells
Beachcombing
Check out the bowling action!
Feeling right at home ...
Crikey, look at this little beauty (C. catches a crab)
What we thought when we had to leave ...
Low tide at Thornton Bay
Collecting driftwood for a sandcastle
It wouldn't be the beach without fish and chips
Shags on rocks
Mmmm, ice-cream
