Wharariki Morning

The early morning light promised a fine day. Rachel and I were out of our beds at 5.30am, dressed and ready to go well before 6.am. We walked the track to Wharariki Beach in the half light and were down on the sands beside the sea well before sun-up.
We knew from the direction of the sun that it would be futile photographing the famous Archway islands just off-shore from the beach. They will have to keep for another visit. So we concentrated on the eastern end of the beach where the Wharariki Stream runs out to sea. The sun crept over the hills to the east and gradually lit up the fascinating contours and curves of the sand–dunes along the edge of this lovely beach.
Back at the Holiday Park we, breakfasted in the communal dining room with some of the delightful French young people we had met on the beach yesterday evening.
We left Wharariki and made a very leisurely trip through Golden Bay, driving to places we had never seen before. Lunch again in Takaka and then we finished off the day by visiting a well-known photographer. He and has partner live in the very interesting old colonial homestead known as Fairholme Gardens in the East Takaka Road. That was well worth our visit.
Back to Kaiteriteri, eventually in the late afternoon. I spent quite a lot of time down-loading images and then agonising over what to blip. As there was no internet access at Wharariki I have had to do a back-blip for yesterday. It is entitled “On Wharariki Beach”. I trust you will find it and enjoy the ambiance!