St Paul’s Rock - Ross made it!

It may get repetitive but it never gets boring. Whilst it was a little overcast and there was even a little rain most of the crew still managed a swim in the warm(ish) 23 degree water. Porridge and fruit went down well and set us up for another day ashore exploring the local area. Whilst still anchored off the town quay it was a great opportunity to tackle the walk to the top of St Paul’s, so named due to its apparent resemblance to the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, I’ll let you be the judge of that!  Ross came along supposedly for the flat bit but with a little encouragement, he made it to the top. The wind was bracing at the top and served as a reminder as to why we were safely tucked up in the shelter of the harbour. Walking down the hill was as challenging as it was going up and we retired to the comfort of the Whangaroa Sport Fishing Club Cafe and Bistro for refreshments. Pizza and seafood chowder for lunch with another walk off to the Bohemian Picnic Art Gallery and Store afterwards, an eclectic gathering of interesting jewellery, paintings and artefacts filled every nook and cranny in the small rooms of the store, well worth a visit. Once back at the boat we weighed anchor and returned to the peaceful anchorage we had been in the night before. Pearl went for a paddle in the Kayak and Juliet spoilt us with roast pork, Dauphinoise potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings. Skipper Mick gave us a briefing on the weather and options for tomorrow and assuming nothing changes we will head south in the morning for Whangamumu Whaling/Sealing Station. After all the walking, swimming and kayaking we were all ready for an early night.