Day 15 - Exploring the Golden Bay

Today's route took us towards the Golden Bay. First, we have to cross the Takaka Hill. During my last visit two years ago, it was closed due to multiple landslides, completely cutting off the area behind it.

The repair work for these damages is still ongoing.

First, we visited the Rawihiti Caves, a limestone cave. The road to the parking lot is only signposted shortly before it turns into a gravel road. Along the way, a gate needs to be opened and closed again after passing through.

The path starts off with a slight uphill climb, then becomes quite steep. It's a rough climb over rocks and stones until the cave is reached after approximately 35 minutes of walking.

From the wide cave entrance, you can see stalactites in various sizes and numbers.

The descent is less strenuous, but still requires utmost concentration due to the terrain.

Next, we continue to the Te Waikoropupū Springs, the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand. Up to 14,000 liters of water per second emerge from the ground here. The water is extremely clear.

From here, after a short detour through Collingwood, we head to the Wharariki Beach, considered the most beautiful beach in the Golden Bay.

After a six-kilometer drive on a gravel road and a one-kilometer walk, we reach the beach. Unfortunately, it was high tide at that time. I will probably come back tomorrow.

As you can see, New Zealanders also hang other objects on fences.