I was up in Abel Tasman over the weekend. Weather was lovely, view was great. Photos are on the way. I’m still sorting out my machine setup.

I didn’t do the sea kayak this time round but went with the hiking option instead. We took a water taxi from Marahau up to Onetahuti Beach. Advice for those going, be prepared to get your feet wet getting on and off the boat. On my way back, I was thigh deep in water trying to board the boat. Jeans didn’t help. If you’re the wimpy kind, we did see a boat with an extensible ramp that will keep your feet dry. Mind you, the ramp is useless when the tide is low as the boat cannot get close enough to the shore.

From Onetahuti Beach, we started on a leisurely walk down to Bark Bay. The steep climb out of Onetahuti Beach didn’t do much for morale. This first part of our walk took about two hours. We did spend quite a bit of time enjoying some snack at the Tonga Quarry Camp and taking photos along the way. The average time for someone carrying a backpack is about 1.5 hours. We didn’t have much to carry but our fitness level wasn’t that good either.

Having arrived in Bark Bay, I took comfort in knowing that we have conquered the highest peak of our walk. We stopped for lunch. Snacks more like. We had a tight schedule to follow or else we’ll miss our boat ride back.

When we started the second part of our walk from Bark Bay to Torrent Bay, we had three hours till pick up time. The average time for this leg of the walk is 3 to 3.5 hours. The timing looks tight. Factor in the fatigue and the fact that we have two hills to climb, things don’t look good. We had to keep up a steady pace which means no photos here and there. Boy, was it tiring. Quitting was not an option.

There is a halfway point marker for those who always wonder Are we there yet? Are we there yet?

Along our way, we came across a swing bridge. I’m not a big fan of swing bridge but this one in particular means less descent and less climbing, which I’m all for. It’s not like you have a choice anyway.

2.5 hours and several peaks later, we finally made it to Torrent Bay with plenty of time to spare. What a relief. We had the choice of continuing on to Anchorage or lounging on the beach. It was a no brainer.