All the way to the top!!

We had discussed early on in our trip that if possible we would do a bus/tour trip to the very top of huge North Island. It would mean that Stephen would be able to sit back an relax as well as hopefully getting to drive along 90 Mile Beach. Some research on the Internet showed us that we should  be able to get one for about $50 each.  So on arrival into Kaitaia we headed in the Information Centre to book our seats. We had checked the tides and thought that Tuesday would allow for a beach trip. We were offered three different companies and we almost thought we were jinxed when the first two weren't running that day. However how luck wasn't completely out when the third company Dune Rider had seats for us.

Our 'off road'  and well-decorated bus.

A view of 90mile beach through the front window
with our driver Paul in silhouette. 

The price was $55 and it turned out to be excellent value for money.  It included entry to the Historical Gumdiggers Park, a drive along 90 Mile Beach, stops for photo opportunities, sand boarding on boogie board down the giant sand dunes, walk to to the Cape Reinga lighthouse,  a sit down lunch and an excellent driver commentary pointing out points of interest along the way. We left Kaitaia at 8:45 and were taken to the Ancient Kauri Kingdom Shop to meet up with another group from Pahia making our group 14 for the day.  We were returned to Kaitaia about 4pm having had an excellent day, and would recommend a trip like this (especially with Dune Rider) to anyone wishing to go All the Way to the Top.
Some links.
Dune Rider
Gumdiggers Park
90 Mile Beach
Ancient Kauri Kingdom

A kauri log that had been buried for thousands of year.

The origin of the 'gum' boots - once belonging to a gumdigger.

A scene in the Historic Gumdiggers Park.

 

Me sand-boarding down a sand dune.

Where the Tasman meets the Pacific.

The end of the road.

The iconic photo - this time in the north.
It matches our southern most one at Slope Point over
two months ago.