And the Business Awards

I put my hand up to the fact that I do give Oceans Resort Hotel in Tutukaka a wrap on this blog.  Of course I do, I work, live and breathe this place and I still wake up each morning loving the fact that I do get to live and work here.

A few months ago Steve and I sat down with the team to ask their permission to enter this year’s Westpac and Northland Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.  With their permission (it is a team effort here) we put ourselves forward into two categories; Business Coaching NZ Best Emerging Business Award and the More FM Customer Choice Award.   For those who are considering entering these awards next year I can not tell you enough times to do it.  Completing the entry forms really does allow you to do a focused health check on your business.  I will be doing another blog on Business in Northland soon as the support you get as a business here is over-whelming, it just sits there waiting till you call for it.

So we put our entry form in.  At the beginning it was scary stuff, not knowing what the judges were looking for or what layout should really be done, but then it dawns on you.  This isn’t high-school, they want to read about your business and they want a clear understanding of your business, your values, your goals, how your business ticks and what the underlying spirit of your business is.  When you realise this it becomes so simple.  As you can imagine our entry form was bright and crisp, a bit of fun and a little bit different……just like Oceans.  And with the support of Tony from Smart Energy Solutions who won last year we put our entry form in with our shoulders back.  No matter the outcome we had presented our business on paper as it was in reality.  Not perfect, not shinny, not with all the answers, it was as we are honest, fun and with an air of excitement. 





What a great looking venue for the night



The judges read our entry and then came out to Oceans.  That part is fun!  We got to show off a place that in all honesty is just a great place to claim as “ours”.  There are not enough hours in the day to share the excitement of that!

Then it was the night, we knew we were finalists for both categories and that alone was a fantastic feeling.  I want to say that I didn’t mind if we won or lost, as at the end of day we were winners for entering….but that would be a lie.



The speech for Business Coaching NZ
Best Emerging Business Award



Business Coaching NZ, Best Emerging Business was the first of our two to be called.   Again I want to say that I didn’t have my fingers crossed and wasn’t silently saying “oceans, oceans, oceans” but again that would be a lie.  But to hear Oceans Resort Hotel called out as the winners was a heart filling sound!!!  To be able to walk up on stage and accept the award of behalf of our team was a treasured moment.



More FM Customer Choice Award

The next one for the More FM Customer Choice award was after Dessert, and the meals were fantastic.  I could have eaten more of that!

Then it was the second of our categories, I will admit now that both Steve and I, despite our desire, had not considered being able to walk away with two awards.  The other finalists were fantastic businesses and I know they are because I shop at many of them!  Though I silently hoped, I didn’t have my fingers crossed and I wasn’t silently saying “oceans, oceans, oceans”.  So when it was Oceans Resort Hotel that was called it was a feeling of gleeful confusion.  An award that was given to us from our customers, it was an award that directly reflected the fantastic nature of our team, it was an award that was of such high honour to receive that I will admit when I got on stage there was a moment when I thought there would be a tear.  And as I said when it was given to us, “This is an award that belongs to our team, it is a reason to thank everyone who has smiled at us, encouraged us, supported us and hugged us” This was really the award of the people.  All people who have ever been a part of Oceans; customers, staff and suppliers.

So thank you to everyone!!!!



Collective Concepts created a great night, The Chamber of Commerce created a great business support base and encouragement and Salt 'n' light have the most amazing photo's from the night, the ones of this blog are just a few of the many that were taken. The night was one that will not be forgotten.  So come into Oceans and look up on the bar and see our awards, Oceans Blue glass (it was meant to beJ) 



off to Dargaville

Coffee and muffins as we prepare for our day

Well Friday we all met at Oceans Resort Hotel, most had a coffee, some had breakfast and some had a beer (why not it is Friday after all!).  I personally had Coffee.  It was 9am!!!!!  And for those who know me you know full well that this girl does not really kick into gear until her third coffee!  (Can't open my eyes till the second!)
Then it was time to load Nimmo's bus with chill-bins, food, chairs, blankets, umbrellas and of course beer and head off to the Races!  We were heading to the "other" coast, we were going west, with cash burning a hole in our pockets. 


Checking out the new building works
That Blog will follow.  Oceans is changing



I am not sure, but am confident that they were ripping up the road and putting a new one in every 2 kms, the bus was stopped that many times with the man (or woman) holding a little sign.  The power of the little sign in holding up the fate of our group winning BIG at the races!!!!  I didn't mind as I hadn't travelled this road before and hand on heart can say it is amazing country!!!!  The last time I headed to Dargaville was when I was 12 years of age.  My interest of the countryside at that age was non existent.  Now it seems the peace that is promised in the rolling hills and gentle streams is something that makes you draw breath and hope for the lotto win - or the horsey win:)

The perfect spot nothing but sunshine

So we finally pulled up and manoeuvred the bus through the farm gates, Rob did a great job with the Nimmo's Bus and there were cheers from all seats.  We drove up the farm road and pulled to the right into the paddock and parked the bus where we all threw ourselves out from the bus and got to have a look around.  The description of "farm" is spot on really, we were far from the Melbourne races!  With the bus acting as a wind break and the chairs, food and beverage unloaded everyone set themselves up for a day of winning, laughs and fun.

Steve, husband, found the van that was selling the BIGGEST mussel fritters I had seen for a long time!  Then he found the bar so really his day was set and he was settled.  Most of our guys on the bus found the bar with surreal speed. 

The horses running - Dargaville Races

Then it was time to place my first bet.  My first bet EVER.  pfft should have really got a translation book before I went!  Most of the time their questions were met with one eyebrow raised followed with a slow "what?"

To cut a long story short (I don't do this often! ask my husband) but the day was filled with winning and losing and my final bet was placed with relative confidence and there was no smerk from the lady as I did so.  SUCCESS!!!!!!!!

I got back on the bus $4.50 up from what I started with.  Do that enough times and that farmlet with the rolling hills and gentle stream will be mine!

Tis the ladies of the day

Then it was back to Oceans, stopping at some pub in some town that I would have no chance of saying the name of, then stopping at another bar in Whangarei and then getting back to Oceans.  On the way home Rob did the draw for prizes on the bus, I missed out on the chocolates and plastic 'boobs' but with a smile I patted my pocket that contained my $4.50:)

 I will say right now that the wonderful group of people I got to share the day with really made the day.  It was full of laughter, smiles and fun, it was relaxing and the sun was beaming.  So thank you to everyone who came, to Rob for driving us and for Lew who organised it and of course Chippy who sang all the way there and all the way back, (he has a great voice so it was a blessing really:))

And just as I sign off, I won't mention names......but at 1am on the Saturday Morning as I went back down to the bar, there was many a horse watcher still dancing, laughing and having fun in the Oceans Bar,  no names will be given but you will know who you are:)  Bet they needed Coffee that morning!

This isn't the first time I will say this nor will it be the last time that I say this, but I am a very, very lucky girl to be living is such a paradise!

and Dolphins in Ngunguru.

Ngunguru - Beautiful

Well if you are heading to spend anytime with us here in Tutukaka, if you are coming up from the South you are more than likely going to be passing through the most wonderful of seaside settlements, Ngunguru - (Nung - a - roo).  It is my personal opinion that as soon as you come around the corner and pass Munro Place you know you are somewhere special.  Infact I will be so bold as to say you will take a deep breath in.  I still do, after two years, I still draw breath.
From Ngunguru you look over to the pristine sandspit, and with a lot of work from very dedicated locals this sandspit has been given back to the people of New Zealand for the generations to enjoy that have yet to see day.

Last game of the season

Today, being Saturday, our household was up early with the usual scurry of Saturday sports activity.  It was Jack's final game for the season, so ALL of us had to go and watch.  Seems strange that so much effort is made when it is someones last time doing something, or last time for a while doing that thing, I was thinking today that if that much effort was put into everytime someone did something this world of ours may just spin a little smoother for many.
So our team played well, aged around 9 they are starting that competition feel and also the game has become more about flash play than forward play, which makes for a very quick game with much cheer from the side lines.


Mum and Dad enjoying the day

 On the way home through Ngunguru, and just after that deep breath that I have warned you about we heard a sqeal of delight from our daughter in the back seat.  "There back!" she gasped.  As all eyes looked at the estuary we saw what her proclaimed delighted was about - Dolphins.  A pod of 5 or 6 playing in the blue water between the moored boats.
So we pulled over and scrambled down the banks to watch.  Amazing to see them about 20 meters away playing and jumping around.  Pure magic.



Dolphins playing in Ngunguru



So on your way to stay with us at Oceans and as you pass through Ngunguru and take that breath in as you pass Munro Place, keep your eyes on the water for the dolphins.  Take the time to stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery that has been returned to the people.  And if you have the time (you should always make the time) turn right towards the school before you head up the hill to Tutukaka.  Stop and get out of your car and walk on the sand and climb the dunes and explore what is NZ at its best.  And if you are lucky watch the dolphins play.

My meaning of life for today that was found?  Seeing Nature and being honoured enough to observe the Dolphins at play.  Who knows if they have stress about things to get done, or wondering if that dolphin really likes them or is just after something else...who knows, but if they do have stress they take time out to play.  Lesson there.

The Sunday Market was AWESOME!

Oceans Community Market

So Tutukaka had its first (since Oceans opened) Community Market and it was FANTASTIC.  So much so that we are going to do it again on the 25th September.  And if that one is even half as good as Sundays one then you can bet your bottom dollar that there will be one on the last Sunday of every month.  It was fantastic to see so many locals out enjoying the warm sun, great food and looking over the 30 stalls that were crammed full of stuff!  Hand made - home made - unloved items - much loved items and items with no home.  There was food, drink, sunshine, music from two very talented locals and a real happy buzz in the air.

Inside the Oceans Ball Room

Eclectic had racks and racks and racks of clothes out for people to pick through, their shop was a buzz with all of their wonderful items.  If you are looking for something totally amazing to impress your dinner guests at home, go in and see Wendy and the team and have a look at their dry produce for sale.  Pasta that has AMAZING colour!  including black spagetti.  Imagine that with yellow and red peppers.  WOW!!!
Tutukaka Surf had their shop open with some great stuff also.  Necklaces, homewares, surf gear, cards, t-shirts, kids clothes etc etc etc.  Seriously if you have a shopping addiction these two shops alone will serve as satisfaction!  Must admit my husband rolls his eyes when I say that I am just going to go and say "hi", he knows better and I always come back with something.  If you are a surfer or you want to be then the team here know there stuff.  You should call them or pop in and talk with Mel and Simon about heading out with them for lessons.  Check out their new website too!

Steve and Fi with just some of the magic

Steve Moase - a very talented local artist was also there.  If you ever want an orginal or a print of some of the most beautiful art I have seen then you need to meet Steve and his wife Fi.  The Spirit of the coast series is STUNNING.  Oceans Resort Hotel is very priviledged to be able to host just some of Steve's Art in our Restaurant for all to enjoy and to purchase. 
Karen from INTIMO also had her wonderful selection out and I know for a fact that a few people will be back to her.  Check out her website for a sneak peak before next month.


Outside enjoying the day



We have to thank Bianca for all her work, she did a fabulous job along with everyone else that came and supported.  so excited for the 25th and I am saving my pennies now.  Saw some great stuff but was way toooooo busy talking to get to the stalls.  not next time mark my words, you will see me there, I will be the one that you can't see due to all the purchases I am carrying and my husband will be beside me rolling his eyes:)

It was just disgusting

So woke to another day in Tutukaka.  Had to take a photo of what I have to put up with day after day after day.  The staff at Oceans are just so committed to our guests that they turn up regardless of it,  having to put up with the view, the great customers and fantastic atmosphere, they just get on with things, a true inspiration.

So, yes we woke to this awful view but we all got on and made the most of it.  Monday night is Pub night where you get to relax with a meal and a glass of beer or wine for only $15.  YUMMY.  Favourite is really the bangers and Mash, well tonight it was, seems every monday I have a different favourite.  I suppose you could say that that is the joy of coming to Oceans, there is lots to choose from. 

And if you think that I am saying this because it is my blog and I happen to work in the most amazing place, you are right of course, orrrrrrr you can review what other people are saying, that don't work here and don't write this blog.  They are on the Oceans Website and they are on places like Trip Advisor.  So read them as well.

See you all tomorrow,  if you can handle having to look at pictures like these.  We apologize now.

Monday Pub Night at Oceans Tutukaka

So again we find ourselves at the start of the week.  Not a bad thing when you get to live and work in Tutukaka, you hear the usual groan of Monday-itis from others, the weekly plod that starts most working weeks.  But not here.  No sir.

Monday night is Pub night at Oceans.  $15 for a meal including a glass of wine or beer, now that alone is a great reason to welcome Monday.   hmmmmm I hear you say, still that doesn't make for a great Monday, and I reply with the ever famous buy TV quip, "but wait there's more!".  Free pool as well!  Want me to seal the deal for you also?....... Winter outside, cold wind and boats straining against their moorings, but inside?......... the fire is on, the lights are dimmed and when you walk in you can feel your body sigh with relief.  That does make for the perfect start to the week indeed.

Carlie and Lukasz doing the popular Oceans
Coffee thing!

As for what our team is doing, they are doing what they do best, smiling!  And what was I up to today, was writing my emails and doing up the plans for the exciting changes that the new Oceans is about to undertake.  Infact I will be so bold as to say that my Monday flew by, with a flurry.  How many others get to say that!

My meaning of life today, my paradise found was the feeling of accomplishment that today has given me.  Cleared my desk, emptied my inbox and cleaned the office, chatted with our guests, caught up with friends and watched that nasty winter day being denied entry into our warm restaurant and bar.  That has indeed made Monday a good day

Sunday in Tutukaka at Oceans Resort

What a CRACKER of a Sunday.  Really busy in the morning with our coffee machine really having to work hard to keep up, let alone the staff having to tell it what to do!





Then for Lunch was our Sunday Roast Buffet.  With Roast Beef and Chicken, yorkshire puddings, roasted vegetables and all the extra trimmings you would expect.  To top off all that was the most YUMMY Apple crumble.



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The Girls having a well earned coffee break



Thing about working here at Oceans is that after all the guests have had their fill we get to have some afterwards.  I LOVE buffet days.  This Wednesday is our next buffet where I will be wearing my stretchy pants and that is the Tex Mex Americana Buffet.  Yeeee haaaaaa.

Oceans has the bar and bistro area, an a la carte restaurant and a HUGE function room which we call the Tui room on the ground floor.  Then upstairs is the Marina Room,  The best view in Tutukaka, straight up the Marina out to the heads.  From here you can see all the boats coming and going.

Even though we had our Sunday buffet going their was no way we were not going to please the many other guests that came who wanted something a little lighter, so our Lunch menu continued full steam ahead.

 

Upstairs in the Marina Rooms was the first of the movie shows, A bee Movie.  What a fantastic turn out with over 100 people.  Congratulations guys!!!!!!!!!





Then to finish off what has already been a great night, our staff moved the pool table and set up a stage and mic system and prepared for an evening of open Mic.  WOW Tutukaka has some AMAZING talent.  We are doing it again as ALL of the acts I am wanting to hear again and again and again.  So lucky to live here and share what we do with so many wonderful people.





 So as promised I will continue to find my meaning of life everyday.  And my meaning of life is finding today's paradise.  And today's paradise was having such a busy, happy day and watching our customers, our staff and our friends enjoying themselves.



 And with that we are able to say that today is and was indeed a good day.







Saturday night in Tutukaka at Oceans

WOW what a night!!!!  Now great is it when the wind is howling, and our heavy doors are protesting at the extra work they have to do to keep that wind out and our Bar and Restuarant are full.  The fire was going the music was playing and the kitchen was humming. Our great staff were buzzing around and smiling from ear to ear.

The hotel is full of happy customers and as the night is drawing to an end we are all warm inside.  The Sky TV has the Blues vs. Reds playing, (come on Blues!!!!! I want a Crusaders/Blues Final)  As a team we had a bit of a gamble, coordinated by our Executive Chef Craig, and I am in for the win with a 24- 18 win to the Blues.

I know that I am lucky to be apart of everything that Oceans has.  Our wonderful location, the fantastic team energy, our customers and our friends.  It has been like winning Lotto working in Tutukaka.

So Saturday night at Oceans saw the Saturday special of a free dessert with every main sold.  (I have always been a believer that there is seperate stomach for dessert, so there is always room no matter how yummy your main was).  To finish off this fabulous meal deal we also have $10 Cocktails!  Double Yummy, what does it mean!  So really there shouldn't be any surprise that tonight we had people waiting in the bar until a table became avaliable in our restaurant, there should be no surprise that at the moment the juke box is off as we prepare for the win in rugby, and no surprise that there is still that buzz in the restaurant.

So what was my paradise found today?  That one is easy today.  On the way back from the bar, on my way home, I was stopped in the hallway by two of our guests, who with great excitment informed me how wonderful their meal had been, how great our staff were and how much they were enjoying their stay.  I was so very proud to be standing with them there hearing those words and the genuine way in which they were given.  The icing on the cake was when they informed me they were already planning on coming back in February for a week.  There is no better feeling in the world than hearing that from someone, knowing how hard your team work, knowing how much your team really do care and knowing that it was being appreciated.

So this blog is for my team at the new Oceans Resort Hotel, thank you!  You know that we appreciate you and you know that we love working with you.  I am thrilled that our guests are seeing how special you all are too.

Tomorrow is Sunday and I dare say that Mother Nature will still be flexing her muscles in the morning and we will wake up again to the fresh crisp snap in the air.  But is it SUNDAY and that brings us the $28 Carvery Buffet Lunch,  YUMMY.  See you tomorrow!!!!

The winter treats have arrived at Oceans Resort in Tutukaka

So there is no denying it.  Winter is a reality.  Even though here in Northland we are blessed with the fact that we are considered Winterless there is no ignoring the fact that Mother Nature has no intention of EVER letting you put her in a box.  So today Mother Nature did show us that she was in charge and will do what ever she wants to do.   As a result we woke to a VERY crisp morning indeed.
The good thing about winter (there is always something good to everything, just on some occassions you may have to search a little harder or wait a bit longer), Oceans Resort puts together the Winter Treats Menu.  So for the next few nights we are going to be going through these, night by night. 
Of course I could put them all down in this blog, but that really doesn't give the respect that each night requires, as each night is unique and each one is special.

Thursday Night at Oceans Restaurant and Bar introduces to our locals and ours guests "Kids Eat Free".  So for all those parents out there (I am one myself) take comfort in the fact that we are here and ready.  All of the kids menus are favourites (suggestions from our own two children, Jack 9 and Nikki 8), Steve and Myself, along with our Chef, Crig Esteck, also put that "green stuff" on the plate (Not popular but makes the parents feel better).

So tonight, Thursday Nights, Oceans Resort in Tutukaka will not only feed your children for free if you are eating a main, they also get their choice of drink, Pirates Poison, Mermaid in Pink, Choc Shake, OJ or a fizzy, they also get a dessert.  There it is:)  We have buckets of felts, pencils and colouring books, and a games room that has all those bright lights and exciting sounds.  Your night will be one of warmth, good food, great service and happy, quiet children.  Bliss!

So we thank Mother Nature really. 

So did I find my meaning of life today?  Today my paradise was found in the happy chatter of the staff, to know that not only are we supplying a unique experience for our guests and creating those new memories that make them want to return to us time and time again, there is a true warmth in the knowledge that our staff are also creating new memories.  We are forming friendships that will be called upon for many years to come.  And when you are apart of such a wonderful group of people you can not possibly imagine there is a better place on this earth to be.

The rooms are warm and as people curl up for the night we know that tomorrow we will wake to Friday's treats, the warm fire, the hot coffee, the fantastic Hot Chocolate Drink and Mother Nature might again show us who is boss but really the weather has nothing to do with it.....shhhhh don't tell her that though:)

Queens Birthday Weekend in Tutukaka

Tutukaka did not have the greatest start to Queens Birthday Weekend.  Well not weather wise anyway.  Last night was Friday night and those who are in the know will already know that Friday night at Oceans is always a great night!  Those who don't know, should know and not know just by reading this blog, so come on out and be in the know.
With the great night came some great winds also, pretty amazing really and to be honest there is something exciting about being out in a warm wind, which it was.  Reminds you of childhood in someway with no finger on any real memory.  Strange how a smell, feeling, sound or other sensation can hurtle you back in time with such force that you can't help but be surprised at it.  Even with these edges of sweetness there was the reality that our Sky ariel wasn't as excited, or, was over excited.  So down she came.  No matter how hard you try, beg, pled and whimper there is no way on this earth you can get a Sky Tech to even contemplate coming out on a long weekend.  Amazing the attitude some companies can have when there is no competition out there.  sigh.  (I think they even got a bit of kick out of desperation)
Saturday has arrived, our Bar is full, the restaurant full the kitchen has that excited noise that reminds me of cooking shows on television (no ramsey in our kitchen though), The bar has sky sports (don't ask me how, it has something to do with some cable somewhere else that I can't access)  The sports playing, the pool table humming and the beer pouring.  I love how the restaurant has that steady hum of conversation.  You should try and listen to a restaurant one day, there is a hum from peoples hushed conversations that is mixed with bursts of laughter, it is quite musical.

The wind has died down and according to Mr Jim Hickey all is on the mend.  The boats are still at their morings and every room at Oceans has guests curling up for the night, waiting to see what tomorrow will bring.  (Come on Jim!!!!).  Some are off Diving, others are out charter fishing and most have no plans at all and will wait to see the day.

Tutukaka Surf Shop has their sale, which started today.  YAY!!!!  So that is one stop for me tomorrow.  Was gutted to see one of our guests wearing the necklace that I had my eye on.....but you have to be in quick around here and the SALE is awesome, I will get another one that is for sure:)  Simon from Tutukaka Surf was still heading out on the water with the surf lessons today and that is something that I am going to have to do, go surfing with Tutukaka Surf, from the beginner to the experienced these are the guys that know all those secrets of surfing on the coast.

So where was my meaning of life today?  It was.............(had to think about this one today, as the more busy you are it seems the less you savour and acknowledge moments.  Note to self that I must work on that!)........Todays paradise, my meaning of life was, Working with Matt Genefaas, one of our staff, on the new winter Oceans HOT CHOKA CHOC.  I love it when small ideas turn into excited thoughts that lead to fabulous results.

So today, the start of Queens Birthday weekend I can proudly present the new Oceans Hot Choka Choc, a delectable, slightly naughty Chocolate drink.  What better way is there to warm up in winter?

Friday night in Tutukaka at Oceans Resort Hotel

Well, having come from the big cities and having lived in a few countries now, there is always that outward sigh of relief at the end of the "working" week (Not so much now a-days as the traditional "weekend" seems to have had dissappeared for many families).

There is still an audiable sigh of relief in Tutukaka, for many it means that we are not commuting into Whangarei for our jobs, it means that boats are filled, the sails are lifted and the Marina becomes a buzz of activity again.  Excitedly the boat engines start and are tested ready for a weekend of fishing and/or cruising.  Then as we all start to head back in the general trend is to be at Oceans Bar by 5pm.  The reason for this is the now famous 2 4 1 on beverage and food, going on till 8pm, then the bar singing starts and tourists, visitors and locals all seem to become friends.  There is a general buzz in the bar and there is usually rugby on the TV.  The staff too are excited that it is Friday as it is also our time to catch up with our Friends and Family and hear of the week and weekend to come.  With the fire on, and people creating teams around the pool table, the juke box being loaded with the tunes that we all know and love you know that tonight is a great night to farewell the week of work.

But as always the night has to eventually end and as people dissappear into the dark and the bar is wiped down and the kitchen is cleaned down from a bulging night of guests, the staff too start to head home.  The weekend for the staff is in the middle of our working week, but how could you not want to be working in such a wonderful place, meeting such wonderful people.

So my paradise today was; watching our customers laugh and joke around the pool table, singing Bye Bye Ms American Pie and at the same time the Hurricanes won with a last minute try and conversion.  I am a crusader through and through and you will never get the red and black from this girl, but still it is always nice to see NZ win over Australia.

Tutukaka and Oceans Resort Hotel

So this is the first time, of few that I will admit that this morning was a morning that didn't highlight all the beauty of our coast.  I don't think it really helped with the 5.15am alarm and then driving to town for the BNI Breakfast meeting.

However being a member of the Thursday Chapter in Whangarei definatly has it's bonus's, surrounded by great people and people who support you in your business and you support them. The Networking though valuable can not compare to the friendships and relationships that are made, and it is the later that keeps you going every Thursday.

Coming back to Tutukaka, it was still raining and there was flooding in the farm lands.  You can't help but drive past the cows and horses and feel a little sorry for them in the rain, (think that is the 'city' girl mentality coming through).  With all the rain you would be surprised to read that driving into Ngunguru there is still a lifting of spirits.  I don't know if it is all those NZ baches lined along the water, or the fact that you can see across to that elusive Sandspit, it could be the boats that are moored, straining against their ropes, eager to get back out to the open sea for sailing and fishing.  As Ngunguru is left behind and you start that climb to Tutukaka you know you are coming home.  2 minutes later you start that down hill drive (watch the locals on this hill, we nail it!!!)  And there it is....HOME. 

I must be one of the luckiest people you are going to read about on any blog.  I have two amazing children, soon to celebrate their 8th and 9th birthdays, I get to work with my wonderful husband, Steve and we live here.  Our work is our home, our home is our work. The team we have around us are fantastic, our locals are amazing and supportive and the guests that we welcome are eager to share this wonderful experience.

So what was my paradise found today?  Coming home and getting to work and be apart of something so special.

Welcoming you to my blog

So we have started a blog on living here in paradise.  The jewel of Northland, New Zealand, the Tutukaka Coast.
The reason for starting this blog is because our family and friends are always wanting to know what is going on and what we have done.  (It is hard to not want to have at least a little taste of what it is like to live here).  Our guests at Oceans Resort Hotel are also people who want to know what has been happening during the time between their visits, so Welcome and Ki Ora (Hello).

So we shall start our blog as every blog should start, at the beginning.  And to start with a nice clean slate we will start with the blog from today.

Even though we are now approaching the Winter months here in New Zealand, we the lucky people of Northland have found ourselves living in the "winterless north".  It, of course, gets cooler but all that means for us is that the sun rise over the Tutukaka Marina is that more impressive and the days are clear with a crisp welcome in the morning.  We can still watch the many boats coming and going for days of fishing and sight seeing around the Poor Knights (a must to visit if you are coming this way).  The other advantage, of many, is the warmth of being indoors.  The Restaurant and Bar at Oceans Resort Hotel has it's fire lit and music playing, the meals are full of warmth and are generous in their sizing and in their value.  On Friday nights they have their bar specials, the juke box blaring, the pool table humming the restaurant bulging with both locals and visitors alike.  It is the place to come and talk about the one that got away and to let the week of work fade away to memory.
For the guests who are staying at Oceans, their home is upstairs and when finally sleep creeps in they can dissappear to their rooms and rest until that magnificent sunrise beckons.

And today was just like that, a wonderful sunrise with a crisp welcome, the green outside Oceans became just that little more greener and the blue of the sky promised a wonderful day ahead.  The day slipped lazily by and as the fire was lit at Oceans and Kitchen started created those wonderful cooking smells the rain came in.  But it was of no concern as we were playing pool.  So as sleep creeps in we are going to our beds and waiting for that glorious sunrise over the Tutukaka Marina.