Trail Mix

Another day afforded an opportunity for divergent activities, as Allan was eager to once again try his hand at fishing the New Zealand rivers. Since I'm not one to sit in the car for 8 hours, I took a water taxi from the coastal town of Kaiteriteri into Abel Tasman National Park. New Zealand's smallest national park was named after the man who first visited these shores in 1642. Despite the clouds (although sun was predicted all day), the ride along the Golden Bay past Split Apple Rock and Seal Rock was very enjoyable. I was dropped off at one beach and walked a 4 km trail through the forested hills to another beach where I was picked up 3 hrs later. Michael W. Smith and Matt Redmon accompanied me on my walk, so it was a very contemplative and enjoyable time. (If those names are unfamiliar---those guys are praise singers, not trail guides.) I returned to the harbor with two hours to kill before Allan was due back, so I relaxed with a book and ordered a lamb pizza which was absolutely delicious. As for the fish, Allan said they're safe for another day.