Hi Aaron,

We toured both the North and South Islands and have decided on ... yes, Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands. :023:

We have also had to give a lot of consideration to schooling for our four children, two who are in secondary school. We had considered Nelson at one point as it is affluent, seemed to have good schools and has great outdoor facilities nearby. But on another trip made by hubby in October to both the Bay of Islands and Nelson, Kerikeri won.

Kerikeri seems to be a town which will expand and the schools do seem to have a good government report. There is also a good private school. As you say, Paihia is gorgeous but is unfortunately out of the Kerikeri school catchment areas and your secondary school children would have to go to Kawakawa.

We are putting the house on the market shortly :icon_eek: icon_exclaim.gif and will be leaving the UK by August. If after considering all locations and the Bay of Islands area does 'grab' you after all, let us know. ::):

::):