The local knowledge from their daughter Olya, who lives there with her Aussie partner Dave, confirmed it. For it turns out Olya and Dave’s favourite surfing spot is the break on the bar at the harbour mouth. So not exactly perfect for incoming yachts, eh? Till now.
The sand appears to have shifted recently, opening up the channel somewhat. And Captain Percy, who all the locals said we should contact for further information ‘cause he knows everything about everything – well, he’s had the channel buoy lights switched on again. So, good to go. Sort of.
Thing is, I’d still consider it a tricky harbour entrance, especially with a south-easterly swell running, or wind against tide. It would be a passage to double-triple-check for safety for any skipper of a yacht not familiar with it.
But if you have a well-found, sea-capable powerboat and know the area and its tides, then fine. Indeed, when we were checking out the channel from the headland that separates it and Motutara Island from Whangaumu Bay, a few local fishers obliged by heading out to sea. Perfect timing for Lesley and her long lens.
The views from the headland are sublime. South across the bight of Ngunguru Bay to the Hen and Chickens Islands and Whangarei Heads; NE in
