There was lots of chatter and laughter as we gathered at ‘The Batch’ in Collingwood on Friday 17th February for pre-dinner nibbles and a briefing with Sue.
By 9.30 on Saturday morning we were all ready for our adventure on Farewell Spit and what a day it turned out to be. Stalking waders on the ‘inside’ of the spit, cruising up the ‘outside’ looking for godwits but early morning walkers had disturbed them. We did spot oyster catchers, banded dotterel, and turnstones. Had a group photograph at the big log by Paddy (our driver) then onto the lighthouse for lunch. We photographed the gannets as they feed their chicks and flew around and over us. Played with our cameras on the sand dunes, drove to the base of the spit to Fossil Point then back up the beach for evening light on the godwits and knots escaping the high tide on the ‘outside’. Paddy ensured the Tavern stayed open for us for dinner.
Sunday saw most people visit the Bainham area and Wharariki beach followed by another evening meal at the Tavern. On Monday most of us started to wend our way home after a most enjoyable time thanks to Sue’s impeccable organisation.
Kath
