Away at the Beach

Nothing much of interest happened in the first half of last week and because of ANZAC Day (Public Holiday kind of like Remembrance Day in the UK) being on Thursday 25th we only worked the first three days.  As the better half's birthday also falls on ANZAC Day it means she always gets it as a day off.  We made the most of this and both took Friday off work so we could get away for a couple of nights.

It turned out we picked a fantastic time to head to the beach as the sun shone all weekend.  We drove out to the East Coast and a tiny settlement called Castlepoint.  Apparently it was one of the first places Captain Cook saw when he came to New Zealand and he named it for the enormous rock.  It was an idyllic spot and we stayed two nights in a little cottage 100m from the beach.  As there is no land between the East Coast of NZ and South America (unless in the thousands of miles of empty ocean you're lucky enough to hit Easter Island) the sea can be a touch wild.  The water is also chilled by a southerly current and I only ventured in once (that was enough).  We instead went for some great walks along the beach and up "the rock", relaxed at the cafe and pub, read books and generally chilled out.  Whilst there we were treated to clear skies and a full moon rising over the lighthouse - a truly magical sight.

On the Saturday we drove back to Wellington via a place called Matakona Beach.   We only stopped there to see some strange geological formations along the beach.  Something to do with different sediment layers being eroded I think.  It looks completely surreal.  We also stopped for another short walk at Rewanui Forest Park.  Once again, in beautiful sunshine, we followed a well marked trail through native bush and enjoyed some close encounters with native birds.  One particular Fantail flitted around us for about 5 minutes but must have been camera shy and  it wouldn't stay still for more than about 2 seconds.  I am pleased to say on this occasion the walk took less time than predicted and there is no epic tale of wilderness survival to tell.

What was strange was the sensation of disappointment leaving the coast and the sea to go home, only to realise that we were heading back to a house which overlooked the sea.  Still can't quite get used to that.  Back in Wellington on Sunday I made use of this fact and went sailing again.  With winds gusting 35 knots it was a wet, choppy and exhilarating ride.  I have now made my mind up to sign onto a crew for the winter series racing which starts in June (can't wait).

So, until the next instalment...