Abel Tasman - Day 3 - To Anchorage

Wednesday 21th December 2005

Up early but almost the last to leave the hut as most people were crossing the very low estuary. From the hut we climbed up and walked along great paths to Onetahuti Bay where another tidal stream needed to be crossed, this was very easy – you could almost jump across and we didn’t need to take off our boots! Rested a while before going up and over a ridge then down to Bark Bay. Had yet another tidal crossing which luckily had a high level route which we used, it added about ½ an hour to the walk. This was a lovely detour with a great waterfall at the end.

Bark Bay was beautiful – busy with kayakers but a great spot for a swim and lunch. Lunch as usual was cabin bread and cheese – think chunky Jacobs crackers and you’ve got it!

On to Torrent Bay, a gorgeous walk with a great suspension bridge to cross with kayakers paddling below. At Torrent Bay there were lots of Bachs (summer homes) and yet another tidal crossing. As we were too early we decided to take the rather lengthy high tide route – mistake! The path took forever and went very high, not was needed at the end of a long day.

Last to arrive at Anchorage Hut but a couple of bottom bunks available. Lots of friendly trampers here. A gorgeous sunset.