Sixteenth Entry

Three blogs in one day? Is it possible? (As it turns out, the internet connection in Dunedin Prevented me from setting a new record, so after a slight delay, here it is;)

The day after arriving in Motueka, we had the Abel Tasman National Park area to explore, but that was not accessible by automobile, and the cost for getting there by boat was prohibitive, so we decided instead to see if we could find the seal colony that was supposed to be located on the furthest north shore of the South Island.

These are the pictures of that day, including some of the road there, which was some of the toughest yet that we have travailed (not a typo.)

To begin our morning off in Motueka, we saw this awesome looking church, which begged for a picture to be taken. There were church buildings all up and down the main street of Motueka. Curiously, however, most of them seem to have been closed down as churches, and now act as store fronts for various spiritualism businesses, such as Gothic arts and fortune-telling shops.

Old Presbyterian Church building, Motueka, NZ

Immediately north of Motueka, is one of New Zealand's greatest assets, the Abel Tasman National Park. It is accessible only by boat or walking, except in one rugged road located on its northern end, reachable through the town of Takaka. Between Motueka on the south, and Takaka, on the north end of the park, you have a road which traverses Takaka Hill, also known as the Marble Mountain. This is one of the steepest and twistiest hill roads in all of New Zealand, in my opinion. Below, you can see a photo, about 1/3 of the way up the south side of the hill, looking back over the vineyards and farmland just north of Motueka, as well as Motueka in the background, with the sea beyond it.

Takaka Hill, Looking Southward toward Motueka.

Abel Tasman Park area, NZ

On top of Takaka Hill, there is access to guided cave tours, although we were not there at the right time, and so we continued our journey northward. Below you can see a view of part of the Abel Tasman Park from the summit of "Marble Mountain."  More info can be found at; http://www.kingslandcourt.co.nz/Nelson+Region/Takaka+Hill.html

The view from the Caves area, atop "Marble Mountain"

Abel Tasman Park, NZ

Looking north, on the far side of Takaka Hill, you can see the Golden Bay area. Below, you can see the farmland just inland from the coastal town of Takaka, which is to the right of this photo.

View of Farmland, west of Takaka

Golden Bay Area, (Upper Takaka & Uruwhenua), NZ

While overlooking this huge valley, we happened to spy one of Dwight's friends, a local hang glider, taking advantage of some awesome updrafts, after having launched himself from somewhere on the 760 meter-high (2493 ft.) mountain that is Takaka Hill. Eat your heart out, Dwight!

Hang Glider over Golden Bay Area, with mountains of the Kahurangi Range in the background

Upper Takaka & Uruwhenua, NZ

The remnants of an old pier can be seen below, just as you approach the access road to Farewell Spit, the northernmost point on the South Island.

Old Pier remains, Farewell Spit, NZ

This photo is taken just as the road splits, with Farewell Spit being to the right, while our destination, the Archway Islands, was along the Wharariki Road to the left--one of the very few gravel roads we traveled on in New Zealand.

 Beach leading to Farewell Spit, NZ

These two kayakers, we photographed from the causeway leading to Farewell Spit.

 Kayakers enjoying the day in Farewell Spit Lagoon

Puponga, NZ

The magnitude of their inhospitable nature at Farewell Spit, was surpassed only by their ignorance of the subtle nuances of the English language...unless that is, their beverages are capable of independent movement...

 Unfriendly, misspelled sign outside the Cafe at Farewell Spit

 (The antithesis to Rush Munro's)

Having gotten over our cool treatment, we took the picture below of Farewell Spit from in front of the cafe. Notice the black swans (take my word for it) in the water in the foreground on the right?

Farewell Spit, Puponga, NZ

Below, you see the Wharariki Road to the Archway Islands

 

 Along the road to Archway Islands and the seal colony

Puponga Area, NZ

On Wharariki Road, we also saw this cool rock formation below, aptly named "Old Man Rock" by the locals.

 Old Man Rock, on the road to the Archway Islands, NZ

Below can be seen part of the pathway to the Archway Islands, with the farmland in the foreground, and the sea just on the horizon in the middle.

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

Continuing along the same path, we begin to see one of the Archway Islands, with a slightly hazy mist shrouding it partially from our view, which could be blowing sand or sea-mist from the violent surf.

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

Another shot along the same path

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

Looking back inland along the pathway, we were delighted by the view below of the pastoral scenery.

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

Soon the country pathway became a forest walk through native trees.

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

Emerging from the trees, we saw this sight, below.

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

Colleen holds on to her hat out of necessity, due to the raging winds we experienced once exposed to the winds on the beach.

 Archway Islands Beach, Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

Below, you may just be able to pick up the sand rivulets as they fly, suspended by the wind, above the dunes somewhat like wispy snow being blown across snow drifts on the cold Canadian prairie.

Sand dunes being formed, Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

 Below, we see Cal's first encounter with the dreaded New Zealand brain-sucker sea-monster

 One of the dangers along the beach

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

Immune to its effects, in the end, Cal emerges victorious!

Victory dance over the carcass of a vanquished foe,

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

 The Tasman Sea, vents its fury,
 Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

The waves relentlessly blast the shoreline in the crevasse through which the Wharariki River flows to the sea, from the right of the picture below.

River mouth of the Wharareki, 

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

The Wharariki River, the source of all the sand in the dunes, as it wends its way to the sea. What is not known by many, is that coastal sand dunes are formed from the silt that river transport into the sea from the soil erosion they cause as they journey seaward. This silt, once it reaches the sea, is then thrown back onto the land by the wind that blows it out of the evaporating frothy spray you see coming off the breakers as they break near the shore. Depending on the amount of silt, coupled with the wind intensity, sand dunes develop at differing rates at the mouths of coastal rivers.

 Whararaiki River

Puponga Farm Park Recreational Reserve, Puponga, NZ

All-in-all, we were unable to detect any seals at the seal colony at the Archway Islands, due to the high winds that day, but that did not spoil our fun, as we experienced what has to be one of the world's most beautiful beaches.

On our way back from the Archway Islands, we stopped at this unique looking cafe, called the Mussel Inn. The lady at the "i-site" in Motueka--New Zealand's tourist information kiosks that are dotted liberally throughout both Islands--recommended this quaint place she goes to for good cafe food and a unique atmosphere. The Mussel Inn is, confusingly, not an inn, but a bar/cafe/music theatre. Intrigued, we stopped in for a tea, while the kids played on the tire swing and watched the semi-tame bird-life there. (Of course all honky-tonks have tire swings--didn't ya' know?) You can find info on it at; http://www.musselinn.co.nz/about.htm  Below you can see the stage in the background, with its unique, hand-signed photos and music of the various artistswho have played there over the years (est. 1992.)

A patron ordering his choice of beverage at the Mussel Inn, Onekaka, NZ

Cal and Cailin havin' a swingin' good time

Onekaka, NZ

Against the front wall of the cafe, you can see two of the daily locals, just popped in for a pint after a long hard day of joinery work. (We saw their vehicles in the parking lot.) EVERYONE here knocks off work at five sharp, unless they're shift workers. Even the i-sites close at 4 o'clock sharp!

Two regular patrons share a pint, with the famous defunct cell-phone pole on the right

Onekaka, NZ



 In our unsuccessful attempt to reach Totaranui beach, we ran across this unique rock formation along the Abel Tasman Drive, between Pokaka Beach and Tata Beach. What wasn't apparent when we took this photo, was that the road actually passes through that rocky crag.

Abel Tasman Drive, going through the point between Limestone and Ligar Bays
Golden Bay Area, NZ

 Below can be seen Tata Beach, which although it was picturesque, was not near as inviting to the swimmer as the shores of Mount Maunganui in the North Island, due to its relatively frigid waters.

 Tata Beach, Tata Bay, NZ

While we were at Tata beach, we noticed this extremely interesting piece of permanent furniture, which we soon discerned was a memorial to a young mother who had died tragically, of cancer, having refused treatment in order to protect the baby she was carrying. Below are pictures of her amazing monument.

Awesome detail of the Memorial to Kelly Jane Bannister, at Tata Beach
For more info on this courageous lady, visit; http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WMAR44_Sit_and_Remember_Takaka_South_Island_New_Zealand

One of the less ornate benches lining Tata Beach, with evening beach strollers in the background

Tata Beach in the evening, Golden Bay Area, NZ




Another long day done, and I believe it's time to say "ta-ta for now, folks!

Tata Bay, near sunset, Tata Beach, NZ


~*~

Fifteenth Entry

Second one for today, I hope! It's now two hours later, but I hope to get the first day on The South Island out of the way, so here goes;

 Wellington Ferry Dock

Below, you can see the gangway in the foreground, while the suburbs of Wellington can be seen in the background.

 Interislander Ferry Dock, Wellington, NZ


I had often wondered how it was that a big ship could tie up along a wharf without incurring any damage to her hull. Below, this seemingly insignificant mystery is explained. Notice the multiple layers of bumpers along the pier?

Ferry Dock, Wellington, NZ




Below, we get a more detailed look at the shock absorption system employed.

Interislander Ferry Dock, Wellington, NZ


10:30 AM, and we're underway, headed for Picton, on the South Island. Although at their closest point, the two islands are only separated by 24km, it is a 92km ferry ride from Wellington, on the North Island, to Picton, on the South. Two things were necessary for the ferry dock on the South Island; 1, that it be easily reachable by both car, big rigs and trains, and 2, that the depth close to shore be sufficient to allow for the drafts of the ferries as well as the various cargo vessels. Picton is the area that happens to fit the bill. The crossing took approximately three hours.

Departing Wellington for Picton on the Aretere Interislander Ferry
Wellington, NZ


I couldn't find an interesting photo of Wellington other than this shot of some of the buildings just outside of the downtown core.

Last shot of the North Island, Wellington, NZ






The first photo of the South Island is suitably windy and overcast, as it would be for much of our time here. Sadly, I was unable to keep my lens dry in the rain, or I would have had better luck getting more dynamic shots of this awesome looking sailboat ride among the rocks leading to Picton.

Just off the southern shores of Arapawa Island, along the ferry route, South Island, NZ

Salmon Farm, I'm guessing, in Te Iro Bay, just off the southern shore of Arapawa Island.
South Island, NZ


The ferry ride to Picton was full of many twists and turns, (twists and turns in New Zealand? No!), taking three hours--1:45 of which was in amongst the Sounds of the South Island. Below you can see it looks like we're land locked.

Looking astern on the Ride southward to Picton
Te Rua Bay in the distance, while Te Weka Bay, I'm guessing, is the closest on the right.


 Another shot astern, as the other Interislander Ferry, the Kaitaki,  heads north just as we arrive at Picton.
Tiny Mabel Island can be seen in the foreground on the left, as the other Interislander, the Kaitaki, has just made its starboard turn to navigate past Karaka Bay.

 Picton, NZ




The sign says it all.

Picton Harbour, NZ


Interesting looking sailboat with big port holes, lots of freeboard, and Picton in the background.

50 footer, Picton Harbour, NZ






Below are some shots of the boats in Picton harbour

The Aretere steaming north to Wellington, stranding us on the South Island.
Picton, NZ




We took this shot of Queen Charlotte Sound after travelling around it for 45 minutes on another one of New Zealand's awesome twisty roads! To the right is the Mahakipawi Arm which cannot be seen, while stretched out before you is Hood's Bay up close, all the way to Ohinetaha Bay in the far distance.

Queen Charlotte Sound, from just east of Havelock





A shot of Havelock from the same spot.

Overlooking Havelock, Queen Charlotte Sound, NZ

Another shot of Queen Charlotte sound

Qneen Charlotte Sound, NZ


Below you can see our New Travelling Companion. In order to keep costs down, the rental car companies have you leave your car in Wellington and pick up another in Picton upon your arrival. Below, you can see that the Pajero has been replaced by a Toyota Land Cruiser, Prado. There were many things we liked abut the Pajero--more luggage space and better rear seat passenger comfort, as well as a larger,more powerful motor--but the Toyota is easier to control at speed, with a wider seat for the driver (CRUCIAL!), with better shock absorption for all passengers. All-in-all, it's a toss up, with the larger motor in the Pajero tipping the scales in its favour slightly.

Colleen Cal, and Cailin in front of our ride.
Queen Charlotte Sound, NZ

Our destination for the night; Motueka Top Ten Holiday Park. This place was immaculate! You can see our first night's cabin with the drapes partially drawn.

Motueka Top Ten Holiday Park



It's got a POOL!

...and a JUMPING PILLOW!

Colleen and the kids jumping/getting bounced at Motueka Top Ten Holiday Park
Motueka, NZ

Giggles abound, as things go out of control!

Cailin, Colleen & Cal, jumping up a storm
Motueka, NZ

One of the funny maintenance cars they used

Nicely painted Top Ten Holiday Park car
Motueka, NZ

Our first night we got to stay in this palatial mansion...

While on the second night, we cheerfully shoe-horned ourselves into these accommodations. The staff was very nice, in that they hauled all of our gear from Cabin 34 to cabin 5--at no extra cost! Thanks for the help, guys! Awesome staff at this park!!

Motueka Top Ten Holiday Park, Motueka, NZ


Our busy day over, it was time to settle in and enjoy the pleasant aromas of the flowering trees.

Everything in this park was mapped out to a "T". They even provide horticultural info on all of their trees! THAT's paying attention to detail! Cheers, guys!

Nameplate, Motueka Top Ten Holiday Park,
Motueka, NZ

Goodnight from Motueka,  everybody!

Fourteenth Entry

Good morning folks!

It's 5:40 AM here, and due to a popular uprising of sorts, I am now blogging instead of sleeping. Last time we left off in Napier, so now we travel down to the capital city of Wellington, which we did not get to visit, because we had a 10AM ferry to catch to Picton in the South Isle.

Between Napier and Hastings, we saw this interesting hedge. The trees reminded me of the ones I've seen in pictures of Haifa, Israel.

Roadside hedge between Napier & Hastings

How could anyone drive by this house without taking a picture? East, and slightly south of Hastings, we found this rare gem amongst the owners vineyards, half way up the hill. What a sense of style!

Vineyard Owner's House, Hastings, NZ

Hastings itself was quite a visual treat, following the Art Deco style of Napier, I believe.

i-site in Busy Downtown Hastings, during a rare break from heavy traffic.

Hastings, NZ

The sights of the picturesque town of Hastings continue.

Art Deco Clock Tower, Hastings, NZ

Believe it or not, this picture was taken only 20 feet from the previous two. They had this unsightly industrial railroad trck running through their downtown core, creating quite an eye-sore, as the track continues to be in use. Instead of lamenting and throwing up their hands, however, some ingenious kiwis, with their keen sense of style, went to work in creating the work of tasteful gardening art we see in these pictures. If only we in Canada could be as resourceful in beautifying our cities! 

Industrial Railroad next to 'Main Street' Hastings.

Hastings, NZ

Looking at the same area from a different angle, you can see how they used the circular train turn table motif to enhance the romance and beauty of the overall garden design.

Beautiful Downtown Hastings, NZ


 Something we were not prepared for was this at one of the local grocery stores. After snapping this picture, a lady behind the counter rushed over and asked who I was with, probably thinking I was from the health department. When I told her I was a dumb Canuck on vacation, she politely told me that it was company policy not to allow cameras in the store. Thus, I have left out the store's name out of courtesy...Oops!

 Hastings Grocery Selection in some nondescript Grocery Store in Hastings, NZ




From the grocery store we scooted down the road for an awesomely tasty treat at the Rush Munro Ice Cream store! According to the friendly ladies behind the counter, the ice cream is made only a km away in a local factory, and shipped directly to their store every morning. We all had waffle cones of varying flavours, and to say they were delectable is an understatement! The factory has been producing ice cream for Hastings and the surrounding area since 1926. Here's a website for those interested; http://www.rushmunro.co.nz/

Rush Munro's Ice Cream Gardens, Hastings, NZ

Here's the scene that greeted me, upon returning to the table, having paid for all the treats;

"Gmmph! whhu? Wr we spos'd tw wait? Gmmph..."

The world's best Ice Cream, Hastings, NZ

All is forgiven, as we rest after our meal in the gardens. They actually allow people to eat their own picnic lunches in the garden before ordering their desserts from the counter. What a novel idea! We felt very comfortable here, and recommend it as a 'must stop' for anyone travelling in the area.

Rush Munro's Ice Cream Gardens, Hastings, NZ

I don't know what town we were entering when we saw this, but it was such a beautiful specimen, we had to snap a picture. I don't know if that's original paint either, but it sure made this Mach 1 look amazing! Notice the driver is on the correct side of the car? We figure that he has a special permit, because it's a vintage car--thus the California plate.

Mach I entering Masterton(?) NZ


Arrived at the Top Ten Holiday Park in Wellington, at last, Cailin tries to put in a little homework time while Cal tries not to.

Top Ten Cabin bedroom, Lower Hutt, NZ


It must be noted here, that this was our second experience staying in one of the Top Ten Holiday Parks association facilities, and we have to say that, consistently, these were head-and-shoulders above the quality of other Holiday Park chains. Yes, there are some gorgeously kept parks that are not Top Ten's, such as the pristinely kept Cosy Corner Holiday Park in Mount Maunganui, but for quality time-after-time, or vote goes to the Top Ten chain of Holiday Parks. (Maybe we should see if they'll let us do a commercial!)

Anyway, that does it for another day! Farewell from the Wellington area.