OkeBay

Every time we come across dolphins in the bay (usually somewhere around Tapeka/Roberton) I slow down and call out "go away" or "will you please stop playing in my bow wave" but they just dont take any notice. Then one or two Explore tour boats come racing in, always on the plane, and follow the dolphins around for the next twent minutes or so. This usually gives us a chance to get away from the rule-breaking situation

Matauwhi Bay is pretty popular with liveaboards. Short walk to Russel town and supermarket, Boat club right there for social stuff, nice dinghy pontoon. Also very sheltered for most wind directions

Imagine a time somewhere in the future when your local just doesnt exist. No menswear shop, no chemist, no bookshop or post shop, no hardware shop, no butcher, nowhere to buy your shoes, workboots, undies or RUM! And of course the locally owned marine chandlery or boat shop. There are two I can think of (Whangarei and BOI) that will usually match pretty much any price and also can offer good advice. (and some banter)

Where is a good pickup/dropoff point for guests on the mainland near to Waiheke? Preferably somewhere a car can be left safely and without having to pay for a marina berth for a night. Thinking Bucklands, Maraetai, Half Moon Bay etc Is the wharf at HMB public access?