The clouds were upon us as Te Kaihōpara’s crew woke up to a brand new day at Two House Bay, Kawau Island. The crew went exploring on the Island, hoping to pat a few wallabies and peacocks along the way. I stayed onboard and fixed up a breakfast soup for the soul on such a windy day. Drama ensued once the crew was back onboard as Cheryl had left her phone on the Island’s pier. As we readied the tender for a quick phone-rescue mission, Delwyn discovered Cheryl’s phone in the aft cabin. Te Kaihōpara playing tricks again, eh?

We set sail for Motukahaua Island (Happy Jack Island) at Elephant Cove down South. The winds kept its promise as Te Kaihōpara glided along effortlessly and even Ross, a hard man to please, could not help but admire the yacht’s grace. Gale warnings on the radio weather bulletin perked up our skipper’s ears, as we took the executive decision to head on down further south all the way to Te Kouma Harbour, to anchor up in nice and cozy spot for the night.

Te Kaihōpara’s favourite party trick, the ‘spotlight’ was up and aimed forward, as it helped us find the perfect nook to stay protected overnight. No celebratory beers tonight, as the crew preferred hot tea and coffee (I have a soft spot for hot chocolate, not only due to the yum-factor, but also due to its heightened dopamine-releasing, relaxant properties) and tucked into bed early. The soft pitter-patter of raindrops are echoing in the dark as I write this, with the rest of the crew glad to be dry and warm for a change.

- Arjun Thimmaya, Chief Mate, Te Kaihōpara