Today we took highway 60 out of Nelson, and started a spectacular drive north hugging the coast line. We climbed high into the mountains outside Motueka, wiggling our way upwards to the summit of Takaka Hill, 791 metres above sea level. Colloquially known as the ‘Marble Mountains’ because it is the source of NZ’s only quality marble rock. We stopped for a photo at the top, looking out towards Golden Bay, the Takaka River and beyond where the valley rises to the dramatic peaks and ridges of the Tasman Mountains.
When we had made our descent we took the coast road once again out to Wainui Falls for lunch and a hike to the waterfall. The walk involved crossing a rather wobbly rope swing bridge, strangely called the Salisbury Bridge.
Next stop was a small fishing town called Pohara…which is famous for its smaller, black and white residents.
We stopped to use the little ‘penguins’ room (Jo – this ones for you!), and took a walk to see if we could spot these illusive creatures…but sadly we were not successful!
Next stop was Te Waikoropupu (Pupu Springs); NZ’s largest spring system and reported to be one of the purest and clearest springs in the world. It is also a sacred site to the Maori, where they believe a female Taniwha protects and clears the springs.
We drove into Collingwood an ex-gold town (population 260) and parked up at our campsite overlooking the water. The sunset this evening has been spectacular!
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