After our brief but relaxing stay in Hanmer Springs, we headed north to visit friends near Motueka. Like much of New Zealand, the roads were quiet. They twisted their way through farmers' fields dotted with cows and sheep, through forests and over hilly terrain.
Our friends recently purchased 3 hectares of land and are in the early stages of setting up their dream property. We camped for a few nights and enjoyed making meals in their 'lean-to' kitchen. The kids enjoyed chasing roosters and visiting the alpacas on the neighbouring property.
Our friends were busy the first day we visited so we set out to explore a couple of recommended spots on our own.
Riwaka Reserve
There is an underground spring that feeds this creek. The local Maori (New Zealand's indigenous people) consider this spot to be sacred as it is the source of fresh water "from below", connecting them with Mother Earth. It is a common place for swimming but the November water was too cold...even for us Canadians.
Abel Tasman National Park-
Given that it was a weekday in the spring, we had the beach practically to ourselves. The kids had fun playing in the sand, collecting shells and dipping into the cool water.
Our friends recently purchased 3 hectares of land and are in the early stages of setting up their dream property. We camped for a few nights and enjoyed making meals in their 'lean-to' kitchen. The kids enjoyed chasing roosters and visiting the alpacas on the neighbouring property.
Our friends were busy the first day we visited so we set out to explore a couple of recommended spots on our own.
Riwaka Reserve
There is an underground spring that feeds this creek. The local Maori (New Zealand's indigenous people) consider this spot to be sacred as it is the source of fresh water "from below", connecting them with Mother Earth. It is a common place for swimming but the November water was too cold...even for us Canadians.
Abel Tasman National Park-
Given that it was a weekday in the spring, we had the beach practically to ourselves. The kids had fun playing in the sand, collecting shells and dipping into the cool water.
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