Hi Steve, and welcome to the list. We actually have a (favourite) list member already in the BOP region, in Mt Maunganui. I'm sure Tony will pop up in a bit to say G'day. I'm an Aussie, but I have very fond memories of Tauranga, as I lived in Omokoroa (a small village about 20 mins away, for those not in the know) for three years in the late 80s and early 90s. It's a really nice place, unless you find yourself attacked by a 3-year old with a toy truck! (Nasty sideswipe, I know) I'm growing in Sydney now, and I'm finding myself with almost as many ripe Santakas, Serranos, Orange Ajis and Purple Cayennes as I can manage at the moment. I have many many more chillies in the back yard, but these are definately the most prolific this year. Anyway, you're in a great spot for growing anything. I'm looking forward to hearing how your garden is going. Tara