Lake Tutira
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Lake Tutira
Almost got work today, but the employer was very specific in that he only wanted guys. They’re often very sexist in that way in New Zealand with employers thinking that only guys can hack the physical outdoor work, and only girls can handle working in the pack-houses. The group of us are therefore left having to drive ever further away from Hastings to find something new to do. Today we opt for a visit to Lake Tutira, an idyllic lake with lakeside campsite and walks along the edge and up the surrounding hillside.
A bird of prey
On arriving we are struck by the beauty of the area, and the plentiful bird life on the lake. The brilliant blue of the lake stands in contrast to the lush green surrounding vegetation. But all is not as it seems on the lake, as this habitat is under serious threat from weed which grows out of control, destroying all in its path. Conservation efforts are underway in the area to eradicate this weed.
Waipatiki Beach
We start walking around the lake, and are surprised to see a bird of prey just sitting on the grass verge completely unfazed by our passing! We next head through some cow fields before climbing up the hillside on a good path. It doesn’t stay good for long though, and we eventually completely loose it and find ourselves in a meadow on the open hillside with no indication as to which direction we should take. We eventually give up and return back the way we came, with a slight variation on the lower section. While walking Sandra keeps us amused with various riddles.
Pontoon
After a late lunch by the lake we drive to nearby Waipatiki Beach, where we enjoy the last of the sun. I go for a dip in the sea, but find it a little to rough, and switch to the river instead. After a couple of hours of chatting, we decide to head back, but having dried off and finding ourselves on the wrong side of the stream, we look for a dry way back. Luckily we find one at the nearby campsite where they have built what they call a pontoon which allows campers to cross the river. A pontoon is a boat attached to ropes, allowing you to pull yourself across the river.
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January 22nd, 2012 at 10:10 pm
Such an idyllic looking setting that lake, Kat!
February 1st, 2012 at 3:41 am
Articles like this just make me want to visit your website even more.