Ben settles into running the pub, but is escaping the city as easy as he thought? Ben's colleague arrives from the city hoping lure him back to his real job. Larissa organises a 21st bash for Zane at the pub but Frank tries to make trouble. Natalie sets her sights on Jesse.

Natalie tries to make a move on Jesse with disastrous results. Calvin has a serious crush on Larissa, but she has worries of her own. Frank pretends he has no problem with Ben — deciding that revenge is a dish best eaten cold.

A new couple come to Jacksons Wharf wanting to make a fresh start. Mahina and Ben try to help, but Frank has different views and embarks on a campaign to run them out of town. Kath puts Ronnie, the rugby coach, out to pasture; and Jesse finds his first day at school more appealing than he had predicted.

Ben spurs the rugby team on while Ronnie drowns his sorrows. Ben gives newcomer Greg a chance, but Frank pushes the matter. Jesse finds his new teacher Serena has more to teach after school.

Greg proposes to Tanya with a ring he found while renovating one of the rooms in the hotel. Jesse tries to get back in his teacher's good books. Charlie and Aroha get a life lesson about chickens when their trick on Natalie backfires with tragic consequences. Mahina and Ben discover the truth about Greg and Tanya.

Lucy invites Serena to dinner, and Jesse is stunned by his teacher's proposition. A small death leads Maggie to a big decision. Frank pushes Greg over the edge.