Sunday, April 22, 2007

Hilltop lookout zoom of Waitaria Bay

A zoomed view taken shortly after begining our descent from the lookout, the grassland is in Waitaria Bay. Weka Point and Kaiaho Point are in the foreground. About 45 minutes after you start the descent from the lookout side-track, you have the additional option of walking the James Vogel nature track - in our opinion, this is also not to be missed.

Hilltop lookout - two Sounds



Hilltop lookout - two Sounds
Originally uploaded by mchnz.
The hilltop lookout provides views of Kenepuru Sound (left) and Queen Charlotte Sound (right). The Queen Charlotte track follows the ridge line running down the centre of the image. A voyage into the picture on the Kenepuru side will take you to a dead end at the farmland at the head of the sound, where as sailing into the picture on the Queen Charlotte side will lead you to the open seas of Cook Strait.

Hilltop lookout: Queen Charlotte Sound

The hilltop lookout is one of the optional side trips you can take. It is worth the effort - you'll be rewarded by stunning views of both Kenepuru Sound and Queen Charlotte Sound.

This shot shows Lochmara Bay and Double Cove. Allports Island can be seen in the background.