Things to do ......

* Walk in and around the Olive Grove and country roads, or through picturesque Mangonui with its historic buildings, craft shops, cafes and restaurants.

* Day trip to Cape Reinga, Ninety Mile Beach, Bay of Islands and the Kauri Forest.

* Golf at some of the excellent 18 hole courses nearby, including the exclusive Kauri Cliffs and Carrington.

* Swim or just relax at one of the safe, beautiful golden sand beaches with pohutukawa trees nearby.

* Fish from the Mangonui wharf, a popular spot to drop a line, or if you want to get further out on the water your hosts can arrange it for you.

For more information about the area, see Doubtless Bay Online.