Thursday 7th February 2019 - onto Murchison

We saw the sun come up over the hills - yes we were up early! We had to be picked up by a small water taxi to be taken to possibly Apple Tree Bay - I can’t quite remember. The water was calm in the bay, but as we rounded the headland it became very choppy indeed. It was an exciting journey, being thrown around in this little boat that held just 15! Lots of gasps and laughter. David and Helen, do you remember the boat ride to Tioman? Similar but worse!!

And then it was the Waka. A twin hulled Waka that would have been used by Maoris in times past to travel the oceans. Ours was much smaller of course. 9 of us, James, and our 2 Maoris. We were given a lesson in the traditional way of paddling the Waka, which included information about respectful ways of holding the paddle - “face” to the front. Our journey was then blessed and we pushed the Waka into the sea and got in.

Oh what fun! We had to paddle in unison of course, not as easy as it might seem, follow the instructions about changing sides, and cope with what was quite a swell. We got very wet and the Waka had to be baled out a number of times. We paddled back to Kaiteriteri where the minibus was waiting for us. Time for a coffee and to dry off, then onto Motueka for a picnic lunch on the beach. The sun was shining again, although the wind was chilly.

After lunch we said goodbye to James and Grace - no more videos! - and then headed south away from Abel Tasman National Park to our next destination, Murchison. A 2 hour drive with an ice cream stop!

Our camp site tonight is a little more glamorous. Firstly, we are in permanent tents that you can stand up in. We have mattresses and a pillow. There is a shower, not very warm, but I’ve managed to wash my hair. It has compost toilets, one for men and one for women, no doors, but a screen between them, so sing whilst you are there! But there is a lovely view through the trees to the valley below and the river Buller.

Not quite the view from the loo, but near enough!!

The only downside are the sand flies which are a pest and bite, sometimes drawing blood. I’m not sure the insect repellent is working!

A sad note today is the discovery that there are forest fires to the north of us. This part of New Zealand has had little or no rain since Christmas Day and there are drought conditions. There is a total fire ban at all the camp sites. One of the fires was started by a spark from a tractor.