Finding accommodation at short notice, in the Bay of Islands in January was never going to be easy, especially when looking for a place that could also accommodate a small child, but Lesley's B& B in Russell turned out to be a very comfortable and relaxing haven. Our little boy was made immediately welcome with some toys, a friendly dog and the chance to visit some hens kept at the back of the house ( his first experience of seeing real 'chickens').

With a view from the terrace out to sea, it was a great spot to have breakfast and predinner drinks and for pleasantly passing the time of day, with Lesley and her dog. A lovely modern and light house, the accommodation was very comfortable and with a beautiful bathroom with a freestanding bath overlooking the bush. An artist, Lesley's work is displayed around the house. She produced a wonderful breakfast including fresh fruit and yoghurt and eggs collected from her 6 hens.

We would have liked to have stayed longer... more