What a joy it has been for Colin Monteath to escape earthquake ravaged Canterbury recently and spend a few days soaking up much needed tranquility and soft autumn light in Golden Bay on the northern tip of the South Island.
Wharariki beach and its offshore Archway Islands are only a few kilometres past the sleepy township of Collingwood. The Puponga Farm Park campground is an ideal base for an early morning or evening visit to the beach. Watching fur seal pups at play in rock pools is pure delight.
The easy three hour coastal walkway from near Collingwood cafe back to Wharariki is a must when in the area. Walkers enjoy great views of Farewell Spit, Cape Farewell arch (the most northerly point in the South Island) and frequent encounters with bands of Kanuka trees twisted and shaped by the prevailing SW wind.
View Hedgehog House images Wharariki
