Abel Tasman National Park - Trek & Kayak

Today we were up early in order to get to Marahau to start our Abel Tasman adventure. We stayed at another Top 10 campsite in Motueka so it wasn't too far to drive. Unfortunately the sun was hidden by dark cloud and it looked unlikely that the weather would change but we were sure it would still be fun.

We took an Aqua Taxi 7km further up into the National Park and were dropped off in a place called Torrent Bay. From here we had to walk for around 2.5 hours to our lunchtime destination of Watering Cove. The walk took us around the coastal path which despite the weather was impressive. We did a slight detour to a place called Cleopatra's Pool, a small pool with a natural slide. The water wasn't high enough for us to slide down but that didn't really matter due to the temperature! We continued along the coast path until we arrived in Watering Cove where we had lunch before being briefed on kayak technique and safety drills. Soon we were on the open water heading towards an island (Adele Island) where we saw a small group of fur seals including 2 month old pups! It was a fantastic experience and quite lucky to see them really (at least one benefit due to the weather). Heading back towards the mainland we stopped in Stilwell Bay and had a much needed cup of tea and cookies! Back out on the water we made life easier for ourselves and bunched together in a raft formation and put up a temporary sail - we managed to use the wind for about 1km despite it taking us 45 minutes to cover the distance! It was a good time to chat to the others in our party including the 3 Geordies. The added bonus was the weather had improved and the sun was out and quite strong! When we reached Coquille Bay the wind died and we were back to using elbow gease and paddle power. We reached Marahau around 4pm feeling slightly tired but happy that the weather had changed for the better and we saw the true magnificance of Abel Tasman - a stunning area of natural beauty. New Zealand is by far the most beautiful place we've been to.

Returning to the campsite we popped into the local store for refreshment (leave that for decide what it was) and then showered, washing the salty feel off! Tonight we're having a BBQ with the Geordie lads and tomorrow will be heading to Westport to start on west coast journey.

We only have 3 weeks left on our travels but we will be making the most of it. Thanks for all your comments - not long now and you can stop (Frank - you'll have to work again!).

Love to all.

Mark & Rach. xxx