Americans on Great Barrier Contd.

After our sea kayak adventure, we decided to show Cara and Colby the rest - or most of - the Barrier. Dan took us up to a spot called "The Needle" which gives you an amazing view of the island. The picture below shows Tryphena Harbor, the most populated area on the island. In the distance you can see the mainland - that's Coromandel Peninsula. 

This is looking northeast at Medlands beach and Kaitoke Beach. Both face the Pacific Ocean and are located around Claris, which is the central hub of the island.

Dan looking out at the surf down at Medlands Beach

Me, Cara and Colby climbing down from "The Needle."

Cara and Colby going for a walk at Medlands Beach

Me watching the waves

Back a home - amazing sunset in the bay

I have always wanted to walk over to the other side of the peninsula where I live to see a place called Nimaru Bay. I've heard of its beauty but never had the chance to go, so I took Cara and Colby there. After a very steep and very hot walk up and over, we came down through the tea trees to this view.

We also stumbled upon some of the most amazing Pohutukawa trees I have seen! The pictures do not do them justice - but they were massive and curvy and like a playground. 

There was a tree swing from one of the branches, and it was very fun!

The flax on the beach had this amazing tree/flower growing out of it - very cool

Colby looking at shells on the beach. 

We paddled across the bay in the distance to that point of land a few days before on our sea kayaking mission. That point is Ahariri Point, where we paddled through the cave. 

I have had a struggle getting myself to go snorkeling since I've been here. I think it has to do with knowing there are sharks and sting rays the size of a room lurking in the depths. I've wanted to find a place with a nice and friendly beach to start off on, to get used to the mask, snorkel and the flippers before being faced with some crazy fish or startled by something big in the water. Nimaru had just what I've been waiting for! I finally, after 4 months living in this amazing marine environment, went snorkeling! And it was INCREDIBLE! I can't wait to go again!!!

Walking home from Nimaru Bay, we found "Lookout Knoll" with this amazing view. This is Karaka Bay, where I live!! 

   

The island in the distance is Little Barrier. It is protected land, and you have to have a permit to go there - which is very hard to obtain. It is seen as one of the last "untouched" lands in New Zealand.

We went for a fish out in the bay and a school of big Kahawai came through. Dan caught one!

And kissed it...

And Colby caught one too!!