Trekking to Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park sits in the far Nw corner of NZ's S. Island. Known for its hiking, kayaking, and wild life viewing this was the next stop for Moose and Mosquito go Kiwi. Getting to the park was er a bit of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. We took Queen Charlotte Drive which is a scenic bypass. A steep narrow, winding road/trail with few guard rails and I am quite sure that there were some lovely views if I was able to open my eyes long enough to enjoy them. You see sometimes the Big Fella thinks that he is in a sports car, when in fact this thing is as big as a semi and doesn't round corners quite as tightly as say a BMW. Driving on the wrong side is also a challenge and there were a couple of encounters with low growing shrubs that I probably should not mention but just did so you now know about them. We chose the village of Kaiteriteri as our base for two nights, had an enjoyable Miller Time -the Fella really needed this one- BBQ'd burgers and retired. Our chamber was the upper berth requiring us to climb a ladder and hurl the body onto the mattress. No headroom but it is cozy. The Love Birds are not campers and renting an RV was the Fella's idea sooo they are happily tucked-in a floor level and bigger bed. Next time it is B&B's all the way folks! I am getting too old and cranky to be climbing into the top bunk. Speaking of cranky- the severely overpacked managed to stow all gear inside and successfully nest the bags AND we found a place to put them. Ahem so lash me with a wet noodle OK.

It is hard to find the words to describe Abel Tasman Nat'l Park. It is beautiful even in the rain and wind which we woke to on the 22 Februay 2011. Gary and Laura booked a seal swim with an 11:15 check-in. The Fella and I opted for a guided kayak trip which took us to the seal colony. We could view the seals from 20 meters without having to jump into the water. The Love Birds were on the jumping into the water - wet suits were provided- and hope that a seal wound slide from its perch and swim along side. They are cute but you know they also have rather large teeth and I was just fine viewing from the safety of my kayak. Our guide Josh looked to be about 22 or so but may have been a wee bit older as he was married with four daughters. Greg and I circumnavigated Tonga Island and the seals were too numerous to count. The pups were still quite young and too cute. We skirted the shorline and began our paddle back just as the weather worsened. The wind kicked up white caps and waves began to crash over the bow. The rain was pelting and the only was back to to paddle right into it. I was terrified but did my macho chick thing and we muscled through it following Josh. He treated us to a hot beverage and a "bisquit" once the kayaks and the rest of our stuff was safely stowed. The water taxi arrived and we headed back with muscles a bit sore but still functioning, a little wet, but happy. The Love Birds did not have much luck as the seals were not much interested in swimming with humans. Another day maybe.

We were aboard the water taxi when we got word of the earthquake in Christchurch.. The locals were understandably concerned as were we.

A word about the water taxis. They are ingenious. on shore we donned pfd's and boarded the boat which was on a trailer. A tractor hitched to the trailer and off we went to the boat launch. The tractor then backs down the ramp releases the boat and zoom zoom away we go. I must admit that it looks pretty darn silly to see a tractor towing a boat full of people in pfd's down the street. It's downright comical but hey it works. It is all done in reverse for the trip back. Water taxis not only provide kayakers transportation to destinations but hikers as well. Hikers are dropped off in several places and they make the trek back on foot which can take days depending on the drop spot.

Shaved, showered, and shampooed went had dinner at a lovely restaurant, slept and were off to our next adventure. Can you say Marlborough wine country and the most awesome museum ever? Stay tuned!

Mary