A Walk in the Paddock

Awoke to a beautiful morning with some warmer weather after our 4th night camping at Ahu Ahu near Oakura. The surf was looking promising and the winds were light. We decided to wait for the tide to push in a little more before paddling out, so we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast. The forecast predicted that the winds wouldn’t pick up until later in the afternoon. Unfortunately that forecast was wrong, and the onshores started blowing pretty strong by the time we were done eating. Decided to try some fishing instead and Chris found some information about a place called Stoney River nearby. We drove to the river and, thinking we wouldn’t have to go far for a spot, we didn’t change our shoes. Ended up hiking through the forest in flip flops but still couldn’t find easy access to the river. As we were crossing the bridge, some kids noticed Chris’s fishing pole and offered some advice as to good fishing spots. Turns out we weren’t at Stoney River, it was about 1K away, “across the paddock” according to the kids. They ended up showing us the way and we found some good spots to fish. Took a walk in the paddock along the river which turned out to be the trail we were supposed to be on. Had to cross a few fences, and based on my previous experience getting electrocuted by a fence, I took precautions not to let it happen again. Unfortunately, still didn’t catch any fish, but it was a fun adventure anyway. Afterward, we decided to head back to Opunaki to try some surfing before we had to return the boards we rented later in the afternoon. Opunaki Beach
was a little protected from the winds and we paddled out. Chris caught his wave on the fish, surf’s up NZ! Colder water and heavier waves than what we are used to in Florida! Surf sessions don’t last as long. We returned the boards at the surf shop and decided to start making our way to Raglan, home of the world’s longest left-hand break (for all the goofy-footers like Chris!). Along the way, Chris found a nice free camping spot about an hour away from Raglan. We made dinner and chatted with a nice older couple who were camping here as well. Now it’s time for bed, so goodnight and sleep tight!