April
6th April 2005
Well, it was a miserable morning in Christchurch and the weather report didn't look promising so we decided to head west to the alps again. This time we decided to take the inland scenic route south from Darfield to Rakiai.
Its amazing how often you can travel just an hour from Christchurch on a rainy day, and find perfect weather. Today this was certainly true. The weather was fine and warm almost as soon as we left Christchurch.
Rakiai is always a bit of a suprise. After passing through the lovely little towns of Glentunnel and Windwhistle you suddenly come around a corner to find yourself looking out at a cliff lined river.
This is Raikia. There isn't much here but a couple of bridges and a ski lodge but this is also a place where tourists can take a jet boat ride, do some trout or salmon fishing, or camp.
We actually came looking for camping opportunities. I wouldn't mind having a camping trip here by the river. I have yet to investigate the fishing in New Zealand. Once you have a fishing Licence I think you can fly fish here all year round, though there are some restrictions for bait fishing.
We crossed the bridge over the river and found the entrance to the camp site on our left.
Its a very simple set up with an honour box system. I think it was about $6 per night. There is a small toilet block. FIrewood was provided but fires could only be lit in the fireplaces provided and you are supposed to keep a bucket of water close at hand in case any fire gets away.
Fires are treated very seriously here as they get away quickly on the steep, tree covered slopes.
We'll definitely come and camp here but it might have to wait for spring. Marisa is a bit doubtful about camping in winter.
From the camping ground it is a short walk down the hill to the river. I wouldn't recommend swimming here. The water flows extremely fast.
We spent some time by the river before heading back up to the camping ground to have a coffee and something to eat.
As you can see in the photographs the weather was perfect here but around 5pm we decided to head back. It seemed really strange to drive back into rain and gloom in Christchurch.
--Brook
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