Having just had a 6.2 magnitude earthquake, I am glad that I visited New Zealand before New year and not after. Technically, within the last month thus meeting the requirements of East of Malaga’s New Challenge: One Trip Every Month, which you will find here. January – Eastbourne ferry from Wellington -a 30 minute trip across Port Nicholson to Days Bay where kayaks can be hired and an assortment of cafes/shops/galleries can be found.
Instructions:
Wellington Harbour: Your Departure point
Walk along the esplanade, passing Te Papa museum until you come to the pontoon at Lambton Quay with the blue catamaran “The Dominion Post” ferry that will take you to Eastbourne.
Buy your ticket at the EastWestferry office opposite and cast your eyes back over Wellington city proper across the brilliantly turquoise wet stuff. One way ticket costs $11.00 for adults.
Stay on board while the ferry docks at Matui/Somes island to pick up passengers.Once a prisoner-of-war camp and quarantine station, the Department of Conservation now manages the island and the walking trails Note: the tiny island could make a great destination for a day trip with a picnic basket, (no retail facilities), exploring the flora, the lighthouse and the bird-life that makes this place its home.
Final approaches to Days bay and disembark at Eastbourne jetty, which doubles as a dive platform for teenagers!
Upon disembarkation from the ferry, enjoy an ice-cream (Hokey Pokey is a must), or if the weather turns inclement, a hot chocolate from ‘Chocolate daze’ Cafe is strongly advised!
A 10 minute walk from Days Bay is a trendy assortment of shopping. But a walk along the beach is free!
There is plenty of time to purchase a special gift or some souvenirs at Van Helden Gallery, before the return home.
If you wish to take an alternative route home, there is only one road in and out, and this can get pretty freaky in high tides or storms. And no guard rails in case you wander off the road. Beware!
Eastbourne, North Island, New Zealand – One trip every month challenge – January. The destination for february is something to ponder about.