Colac Bay, Monkey Island, Gemstone Beach

Today we drove a portion of the Southern Scenic Route, which lived right up to its name. The light was exquisite.

Colac Bay/Oraka

This is a big surfing spot and we spotted a wet-suited surfer riding the waves today. 

I'm wearing my new Kia Kaha shirt, from a line of Maori-designed clothing of the same name. In Maori, kia kaha means stay strong. The look on my face tells you everything you need to know about how I feel in NZ.

This is a weird-looking rescue boat you can stay overnight in. It's situated just off Colac Bay.  Art's ready to move in.

Monkey Island 

Monkey Island looks forbidding (foreboding?) but it's easily accessible at low tide by simply walking out to it. Stairs lead to the top. We were a bit early for the path to be clear.

Here's the route today (click here to view map if reading in email):

Gemstone Beach

We walked, heads down, looking for the promised gemstones, but all I found were copious bits of plastic, which made me snarky until I looked up.

 Lookout at McCracken's Rest

Flat White Time, Campers

In Tuatapere, at Last Light Lodge, which has a highly rated restaurant we'll be returning to for a meal.