We had the most amazing time at Ron and Maureen's villa. The location is absolutely perfect - right on the water looking out to the Bay of Islands. Ralph snorkelled every day on our doorstep and saw crayfish, baby marlin (at night), octopus and eels. The villa was wonderfully equipped with everything we needed and Maureen had stocked the fridge with all sorts of yummy treats, including a homemade fruit bread. Russell is a fabulous home base from which to see the entire Far North, and in one week, there wasn't much we didn't get to see! Ron and Maureen were lovely hosts, suggesting walks in the area like the Tapeka track (stunning view at the top!) and which restaurants to try. They had an incredible knowledge of the history of New Zealand and we learned so much from both of them about the native plants and birds. We fell asleep every night to the sound of the waves crashing on the beach below us and woke every morning to a stunning sunrise over the water. The bed was very comfy and the villa spotlessly clean and spacious. We are already trying to figure out how we can come back next year....:) This trip was truly unforgettable!