w h i t e w a t e r • r i V e r • s e a • m u l t i s p o r t ... - Canoe & Kayak

for the big trip, remembering the fantastic paddle I
had last November 2006 on the Kuaotunu Peninsula
when strong N.W winds were forecast .
I knew that you get a pleasurable trip and
mesmerizing views if you hug the coastline. It
offers fantastic rock gardening , sea caves, soft
sandy beaches & no concern of dumping surf. You
are spoilt for choices of bays to take shelter along
the Southern Kuaotunu & this was my choice for a
two-day paddle.
Travelling up from Tauranga Saturday night I
allowed 3hrs on winding roads and stayed at
my sisters at Rings Beach just north of Kuaotunu
(Note they are building a bunkhouse, perfect for
future trips with loads of character. Their house is
like a museum complete with a model A & an old
sidecar. If you talk nicely to Ace he will take you
for a ride along the beachfront.)
On arrival Karen took me aside and quietly
enquired ? Had I seen the weather forecast?
“ I didn’t want to tell you over the phone in case
you decided to cancel and we were looking
forward to seeing you” she said as she opened a
bottle of red.
“No worries,” I said,” the wind is supposed to
die down Sunday – Monday.” ( It had better I
thought!)
The next morning it was sunny with grey clouds
hanging around. I met Dennis at the Kouatunu store.
We drove over Blackjack hill (unsealed and very
steep/winding road) rewarded with spectacular
Tui Excel
A versatile, go anywhere kayak
Penguin
A tried and true winner that
delivers affordable excellence
Tasman Express
An exceptional performance
sea kayak
Dusky Bay Classic
Leisurely cruise, open waters, or a
kayaking adventure
A tried and true design just got better
For information on our complete range and stockist,
visit www.q-kayaks.co.nz or phone 06 326 8667
ISSUE FORTYone • 2007 9