D’URVILLE DREAMING

Even in the ‘safe’ navigable passage closest to the mainland the turbulence is evident from inside the boat; the engine must work harder and, while the water is often flat-calm, the whirlpools and eddies are clearly visible. Large pressure waves off to the side add urgency to picking the right line. Sometimes it feels like you’re flying in an aircraft, hitting air pockets that punch you to one side.

But French Pass is just one small part of the overall D’Urville Island experience. Chances are, even if you’ve never been there, you’ve heard or read enough about Rangitoto ki te Tonga/D’Urville Island to whet your interest in a visit. The question many people ask is whether it’s ‘do-able’ for the typical Kiwi trailer boater? The answer is yes, but with some caveats.

Situated at the top of the South Island and exposed to the most extreme wind, sea and sun conditions imaginable, the island