Lake Rotoiti, slung on the north west realms of Lake Rotorua, deep in the belly of the Bay of Plenty. The second most popular lake in New Zealand after Lake Taupo, its shores are strung with baches and jetties, boat sheds and 50's era pleasure vessels. It reeks of older times. The weatherboard dwellings are plastered with old family photos and drawers and cupboards overflow with battered cutlery, chipped plates and thick rimmed glasses and cups. Each room has the obligatory bunk bed and chest of drawers. The lounge has a splattering of couches, recliners and foot stools, while the rounded cream coloured fridge rattles in the corner. This is what makes New Zealand soo kiwi. Other countries have temples and castles, we have baches. Whether they served for fishing, skiing, beach or any other multitude of uses, they all have the cosy, comfy, come in, wipe your feet and play scrabble in front of the heater atmosphere. Hooraa for having a true kiwi cultural icon to call ours.