Whangara

If you've not seen Whale Rider, go see it now (and fall for Cliff Curtis). Then read the book. Then read all of Witi Ihimaera's other books, and fall for Witi Ihimaera.

These pictures will mean a lot more to you.

Ok, these little beached whale props are really cute.
I love the one struggling up the hill.

Oh look, the waka (prop) and the whale island in the background (real) that the story is based on!
Fantastic!

Raukokore

Many of the carvings paid tribute to the men who fought and died in the first world war.



This is Raukokore marae.

This is another 180 picture.

Once you go around the bend in the road above you see this:



The "immaculately maintained beacon of belief" Anglican Church.

And the attached cemetery.

Whanarua Bay

This is the marae entrance* at Whanarua Bay.



After taking this picture I turned 180 degrees and took the following picture:

I don't think I have mentioned this yet, but the East Cape is unimaginably beautiful.


*For the record, no maraes were entered on our journey, but all 753 that were visible from the road were admired and many were photographed.