Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds have lived up to their reputation both scenic and weather wise. We have had a week of glorious weather and the outlook remains good for the next few days.

French Pass

After a couple of very pleasant days with Ngai's 'other' mum in Motueka we headed for French Pass. A dusty, windy road that left arms tired from battling with the steering wheel for a couple of hours.

Road to French Pass

The Dept of Conservation campsite is very pleasant but not as spacious as we imagined. Cold showers were not appealing enough to entice me.
We had the constant company of Wekas, one stole my muesli bar from my hand whilst I was otherwise occupied gazing at the view. Cheeky bugger.

Abel Tasman NP

Next stop was Pelorus Bridge and the DoC campsite there is a credit to them. Very new facilities and a lovely setting. As it was Friday night there was quite a crowd including a large group there for a child's birthday. What a way to spend a birthday, they were clearly having a great time.
Ngai braved the chilly, crystal water for a bracing swim. I watched gallantly from the bank, keeping an eye out for crocodiles. Luckily, none were seen.

Riwaka River

This afternoon we paddle down the Pelorus River for a couple of hours, spend the night in Havelock and then head for Titirangi Bay, likely to also be a dusty trip but the campsite has been recommended by people we met at French Pass. A stiff norwester is forecast so we may seek some shelter there.