Whangaroa Harbour is an interesting compact cruising grounds. After dodging numerous rocky bits on the way in, we entered the main channel. However, our gaze was immediately drawn to the western arm of Pekapeka bay, decorated with lofty crags. As you know we have had several nights here with one major front going through and another system fast approaching in the next 24 hours. Currently the low is supposed to be down to 980 and our barometer reads 989 mBar. Winds are forecast to 55kts. OMG. We are sharing the Waitepipi bay in the NW corner with a local motor boat as well as the 80 foot, 100 tonne long line Bluefin tuna trawler, the Santa Rosa. The sun has set behind big thunderheads and the westerly is cold.
I have successfully resuscitated our outboard after the dinghy overturned in high wind. Washed out the cylinders and carburettor with light machine oil, turning the motor over, and then again with some of that ether engine start spray. (In Australia it is called "Start Ya Bastard" I think). Dried everything and then a full pulls and away she went. Yippee. The marine engine folk said they would do anything else so no need to overhaul the engine (yet).
We have done a number of interesting walks including the ascent of the Duke's nose, the ascent of St Paul's rock, named after its obvious similarity to the cathedral, an obscure walk to a scenic reserve with no view, and a longer walk up the creek from Rere bay towards Totara North. The Duke's nose really gives best bang for your buck and pix are in the gallery. St Paul's is shorter and easier but gives outstanding district and harbour views and is much more accessible.
The rest of the main harbour changes rapidly into farmland within two miles and loses its wilderness feel. The village of Whangaroa is remarkably quiet at this time of year. The general store lives up to its name. There is a nice marina but depth would limit our access and it is exposed to W and NW.
After the blow we hope to sail a short distance north to Mangonui before returning to Opua next week.
PIX HERE