Who: Shirley and Annette in Bluebell
When: Saturday, 23 August 2014
What a fabulous way to end winter, with a sunny day of paddling to the bird sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi.
 |
| Te Haruhi Bay - our starting point |
We set out on the water from Te Haruhi Bay in the Shakespear Regional Park at about 10am. Reading other trip reports, it seems like many people prefer to leave from Army Bay on the north of the peninsula, but this seemed closer and worked just fine for us. (Perhaps the launch site is closer to the carpark there - we had to carry the kayak about 50 metres to the water. Will remember to bring the trolley next time!)
The day was sunny but cool and there was a decent southerly wind. It was predicted to be about 15 knots with 1 metre swells. After having a good look, it didn't look so bad, and because we knew it was set to calm down during the day, we went for it.
The paddle took us about an hour and was not onerous. We saw a penguin in the distance and some cormorants closer to the island. Our orca are still eluding us.
 |
| Landed! Our starting point is to the left of Annette's head. |
|
Pulling in at the largest beach, Hobbs beach, we set out to explore. Annette has been to the island a few times before, but this was my first time. I was not disappointed! A few kakariki swooped around the beach and the birdsong from the bush was almost deafening.
Starting off on the Wattle track, we were treated to a family of saddlebacks coming within touching distance. No fear. These birds are so used to people.
 |
| Time to explore! |
 |
| Good place to pull the kayak up |
 |
| The birds didn't pose but these kowhai did. |
 |
| Top of the hill - Ridge Track |
Lots of bellbirds, tui and stitchbirds, as well as the cheeky fantails, were all around. The song was stunning.
 |
| The historic lighthouse |
After lunch at the lighthouse and a chat with the lady who oversees everything, we set off to look for takahe. No luck this time.
Returning to the kayak via the Kawerau track, two bellbirds dived between us and we also enjoyed seeing the more native, established forest. Some incredible pohutukawa!
 |
| Hobbs beach |
We got back in the kayaks at about 2:45pm and meandered back to the mainland. Another hour and a bit later, with much calmer seas, we were back and almost sorry to be.
 |
| Heading home |
An excellent way to spend a sunny day.
Must haves: water, camera, snacks sealed in containers. (Be extra vigilant to not pack rats because this island is predator free.)
More information on Tiritiri Matangi:
http://www.tiritirimatangi.org.nz
 |
| Underwater cameras are a must. We now have one each. |
 |
| Our route there and back again |
