On the back of a smooth Cook Strait crossing, our only challenge on arriving in Picton was getting our compact rental van boot closed over our packs, filled to the brim for a long weekend camping adventure. Happy Apple Backpackers in Motueka was a great place to crash overnight and we set off to Marahau to catch some gorgeous morning light the next day. A bunch of cheeky fantails chirped about to set us off on the track and we soon arrived at picturesque Apple Tree Bay. After some scenic detours we headed over to Anchorage where Ed was the only one amongst us to brave the water. (I did make great claims that I would take the plunge as well but didn’t get further than a first few icy steps)
All lunched up, we tramped round to Torrent Bay and set up tents before having a wander around the collection of baches and the beach. We’d heard about Donna’s culinary expertise but none of us were prepared for the awesome chocolate fondue that followed dinner – to a backdrop of fireworks set off by a friendly group of locals.
We continued on the next day, grateful for Donna’s local knowledge about epic spots like Cleopatra’s Pool (though we did think it was a bit chilly to imagine Cleopatra taking a dip there at this time of year). After lunch at Bark Bay, we headed round to Onetahuti where we set up camp for the night. Exploring close by we found a cave complete with glowworms and cave wetas plus managed a pretty hilarious game of gin rummy. Dinner was a jovial affair in the haven of a semi-covered kitchen spot.
Last day we ambled over to Awaroa. Checked out eels, pukeko and more in the wetlands while we waited for our water taxi. Pretty strong winds meant there was a bit of rock ‘n roll as we boarded – all made worth it by our friendly driver who detoured to check out seals, gannets and other local highlights. Back at Marahou we managed hot showers at the local campground and piled into the van for our return journey. By the time we hit the ferry, the rummy stakes were high – made all the more entertaining by a Wellington ragtime band who were onboard and played a few sets. An upbeat close to a great long weekend.