Akaroa

Although we’d been to Akaroa before, both Neil and I were keen to go back. My main reason was Birdling’s Flat — a famous rockhounding beach known for its agates, chalcedony… and its dangerous surf. I may have collected “a few” stones already on this trip (Neil reckons I’ve added a couple of tonne to the motorhome!), but I was determined to find more.

Our first night was spent in a tiny carpark overlooking the water at Robinson’s Bay. During the night the wind howled, the rain hammered down and the motorhome rocked around so much it felt like we were out at sea. Thankfully we were “built on the rock” and survived the night just fine! By morning you’d never have guessed — the sky was bright blue and completely calm.

From there it was only a short drive into Akaroa, where we stayed at the same freedom camping spot we used five years ago. Akaroa really is a gorgeous little town. Originally settled by the French, it still has that lovely French feel to it. We wandered the waterfront with the dogs, explored the bush walks, visited the lighthouse, and I even managed to find some sea glass along the shore.

The only downside was our neighbours deciding 2am was the perfect time for a party. Out came the dressing gown while I went over for a polite “please turn the music down”!

Next we headed to French Farm Estate, a POP site recommended by Carol and Malc. It used to be a winery and is now being turned into a restaurant and bar. Although the renovations meant the restaurant wasn’t open, they were happy to have us stay — and we even scored power for the night.

Of course, no trip to Akaroa is complete without stopping at Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory, so naturally we stocked up on cheese before heading back to Birdling’s Flat. As we arrived, Neil spotted a car bogged on the beach and immediately headed over with the traction mats and spade to help. In the end a local with a 4WD had to pull them out — apparently it happens there all the time!

We also visited the local gemstone and mineral museum, where I discovered I actually had found real agates at Birdling’s Flat after all. I was very chuffed with myself!Read more