3 December 2011

In a secluded section of Smokehouse Bay the Webster family have set up facilities for boaters: Laundry tubs with manual wringers, bath tub with wood heated water, book exchange, composting toilet and rope swings. Paths lead up steep hills for occasional views cross bay to the Pyramids (not the real ones, fake ones made out of small mountains). Coming down Jan wanted me close below to grab when her gimpy knee let go. Being faster I remained well away to dodge then give her a high five as she disappeared over the edge. Promised to recover all the larger bits for return to her family.

At last, after touring trails around the mansion house (ergo... see previous) and imbibing cappuccino with rasberry cream scone among the brown teals and peacocks, had most best perfect beam reach in 12 to 14 knots and 1/2 meter sea for 12 mile, 2 hour sail. It's for the birds. Better than going to the Dogs although snorkeling is just as good in the BVI (non-sailors may just ignore that last bit).

Trail walked (anybody notice a theme last few days?) Tiritiri Matangi Island sanctuary up to an 1864 lighthouse at the south end for theoretically beautiful views of Rangitoto Island, 10 miles away, and Auckland, 15. It was hazy. The place is eat up with birds including humongous seagulls and Tui birds, namesake for a good local beer, which have a unique song and fly through dense foliage at warp 8. Also saw red-headed parakeets and greenish pigeons the size of Mack trucks. Wouldn't want to be a statue in New Zealand.

Jack