Up early to leave by 7.40am for Collingwood to pay for the bus to Farewell Spit. Then on to Puponga to get the bus. Poured while we waited but soon the weather cleared and we had great weather for our journey along the Spit. Firstly our guide took us as far as he could to the Cape Farewell end of the Spit where we got out of the bus and had a stroll around to look at the birds and seals, cliffs etc. back on the bus to traverse the spit to get to the western side where we drove along the Spit with the Tasman Sea on our left. Seals, oystercatchers, shags, etc. etc. the commentary was excellent and we learnt many interesting facts about the formation of the Spit and its history, natural and human. It is an ever evolving place, constantly changing and well worth visiting as this is a unique environment. We reached the Lighthouse after 35 kms of beach driving and were given morning tea. As the light is now automated the keepers houses are used for other purposes eg by DOC and the tour company. The history of this tiny settlement to service the light was really interesting. Before returning we got as close as possible to the large gannet colony near the end of the Spit. Also stopped on the return journey to let those of us so inclined climb a high sandhill and run down. It was blowing hard , although fine, and we got well and truly sand blasted.
Coffee at the Farewell Spit Cafe where we sat on the balcony overlooking the lovely view. Back in Takaka by 4pm and we watched the cricket final. I cooked a chicken and veg dinner. An early night.
The view from Cape Farewell Cafe
Cape Farewell end of Farewell Spit
Bill on the beach
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