Today I decided that in spite of the rain I would do what I haven't done in quite a while. I found a road on a map that I have never been down and set off to explore it. The road I chose was the road to Hori Bay. This little bay is tucked away between Nelson and the Marlborough Sounds along a piece of coastline that is well away from the main road. I have driven past the turnoff many times but never knew where it went. I picked it out from a map this morning and decided to find it.
When I found the turnoff I was pleased to see a large sign pronouncing the fact that public access to the bay was open today. I took the turn and crossed a small bridge to find a second sign, that said public access was available, most of the time and that if access was closed there would another sign alongside this one to say so. Clear as mud. Along the road a little further I came across a third sign which said in big bold letters that there was no unauthorised access. I decided that the first two signs were my authorisation and continued on my way, unsure if I was actually allowed to or not!
The road into the bay weaves through industrial pine forests. I was glad of the 4wd capabilities of my van. Although on a dry day the road would be drivable in 2wd, today the rain made it very slippery and water ruts presented and extra challenge. At one point the combination of a clay road, covered in fallen pine needles and a lot of rain water sent the van on an uncontrollable slid toward the side of the road and several large pine trees. Thankfully I was able to bring the van to a stop just before sliding right off the edge into the trees. About then I climbed out and locked the front wheel hubs and engaged 4wd. I was glad I did as the road just got worse from there. The van is now caked in mud and looks like a real off-road vehicle! As I neared the coast I crawled down to the bay in second gear to find I had the place to myself (hardly surprising considering the weather).
Hori Bay is small and relatively exposed. Surrounded by high bluffs and rocky coastline, it has a remote wild feel which I love. I climbed to the highest cliff top up a small track. By the time I got back I was drenched to the skin from the waist down. Not from the drizzle that was falling but from wading through the long wet grass that surrounded the track (which obviously does not see much traffic). The views were worth it though and I had dry clothes in the van to change into (no dry socks though!).
Looking down from the cliff tops you can see the discoloured creek water from all the rain mixing with the sea.
Not exactly a big beach, but who cares when you have it all to yourself.
There were heaps of these odd blue flowers along the track and surrounding hillsides. I'm not sure what they are but I thought Briggsy would like them.
Kaycee, the old sea dog, came with me.
I caught this view of Delaware Bay on the way back from the ridge above Hori Bay. I often kayak there but had never seen it from this angle. Note the weather. Its supposed to be summer!
9:48:56 PM 
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