Picton to Marahau

Another gorgeous day greeted us the first morning on the south island. We decided to take the scenic route along the north coast west towards Abel Tasman National Park. Jon is really excited about visiting this park which is known for it's beautiful forests and golden beaches. The road over affords beautiful views of the Marlborough sounds.


Lots of lovely coves


Here's a good view of native forests in tact.


Quite a dramatic tidal influence here.


Moving inland towards Nelson. Note the clearcut logging on the right, which seems to be replaced by invasive thorny broom, seen yellowish on the left. We were rather surprised by the logging practices here considering the 'green' and environmental awareness here. We've been talking about writing a letter. While it's necessary to have timber, and it's great that it's being grown locally, I would think that some more sustainable harvesting practices could mitigate the environmental issues which accompany clearcutting, such as siltation of waterways and loss of habitat.

Ahhhh.....pretty green waters and forests....much nicer to think about!


We drove to Marahau and camped at 'Old McDonald's Farm', right at the southern entrance to the park, after booking a morning kayak trip. The place had some great plants, including this fabulous silver lily...that flower is as big as my thigh! I'd like to see if we can grow this plant at home.

Cute llamas at the farm...there was even a baby one, but the herd seemed really protective of it and kept it blocked and far away from the camera. We walked about a bit and retired early so that we'd be rested up for tomorrow.....