HAAST — 12th March, 2021

Got up did the washing before we left camp at 9.00am to go to Jackson Bay.  This bay is as far as the road goes down the west coast. Bright sunshine all the time we were down there. Spent about three hours in the bay, then returned to camp 2nd night at Haast. Another hours drive back in plenty of time to watch the race. We heard the wind isn’t that great so we are in the lounge waiting to hear and yes PT has the remote in his hand and not letting it go.

After the racing we will go back to the van to make dinner. Another big day even though we haven’t moved camp..

 Now on our way for the drive south to Jackson Bay. A quick look at Haast beach. Looking north. Nothing along the beach front except the sand dunes. You have to walk about 50mt to the beach from the road.

Looking south. Another superb day.

This is the track to the beach looking back at the hills 

Passing by this interesting looking lagoon. Sandbank dividing the open sea and the lagoon.

The road was practically straight most of the way. Quite a long stretch of road with overhanging trees which makes this a pretty drive.

Many more rivers and single bridges to cross.

Now approaching Jackson Bay. Very sheltered bay especially as it’s on the west coast . It’s where the commercial fishermen go fishing from.  Also many private runabouts out fishing. The bay is very sheltered as it hooks round to protect it from the westerly winds.

Getting nearer and can just see the big long wharf which is an unusual sight on the west coast.

We have arrived in the bay. Found a spot to park for a few hours.

Made a coffee so peaceful and quiet. Looking out from the van. Lots of sandflies  around so sitting inside. Typical on the west coast and around rivers.

Looking back to the Wharf.

Just coming out of the bush walk.

After a twenty minute walk through the bush,  we have come out to the open sea beach on the other side of the hook that protects Jackson bay.

So much driftwood and heaps of sandflies so didn’t stay long although we did have repellent on.

The famous Craypot restaurant. 

Couldn’t leave Jackson Bay without a crayfish lunch. Special treat.

I was allowed to have the crayfish meal and PT had seafood chowder. Yummy 😋

Looking down the wharf.

Now left Jackson bay going back up the coast.

The beach goes for miles and miles.

Looking up under the bridge that we are going to cross.

Looking down the river as we are crossing the bridge.

The pier that is used for placing the whitebait nets out on. 

Last shot before continuing on to Haast to the camping ground.