It was a gorgeous spring day and better still, it was the weekend. A great combination for some 'RnR'. And where better to spend an afternoon not far from home, than, Kina.
Paddy wasn’t feeling very well, so we thought he’d be happier left at home. But he wasn’t having a bar of that. As soon as he saw us open the bus door, he was in like a shot and refused to get off the couch!
When we arrived at the Kina Recreation Reserve, instead of heading to where you stay overnight, we veered to the left. It’s a large grassy area with trees dotted about for shade and the beach is just a hop, skip and a jump away. Although you can't camp overnight in this area, it's an ideal spot to spend a few hours.
Even before I’d turned the engine off, Bernie had turned the jug on. I wasn’t as eager as Bernie for a cuppa, so while he quenched his thirst, I took the dogs for a walk.
What a gorgeous beach. To the left there are huge towering cliffs, and to the right you can walk to Ruby Bay. The beach is covered in flat stones, driftwood and patches of sand. And better still, I had it to myself. Just me and my dogs.
Although the council reserve for camping is relatively small, it’s a camper’s dream. If you’re among the first half a dozen campers to arrive, there’s plenty of space to park along the foreshore, with spectacular views across Tasman Bay.
The cost to stay is $5 per person, per night and under 16 years of age is free. There's a maximum stay of 4 nights per calendar month. The reserve has fresh water available, a long drop, (which, apparently is kept clean, but I never looked) and a few fire pits. Finding wood for a fire won't be difficult - there’s loads of driftwood scattered about and a few pine-cones. You'll be spoilt for choice for places to sit. Your options are; several logs, which have been swept onto the beach, picnic tables and seats ... all offering million dollar views.
When I got back to the bus Bernie was in 'relaxation mode' ... stretched out in the sun. It was just lovely. I rang Becs (my daughter) to tell her where we were and an hour later she pulled up in her wee ‘Bongo’ van. Her two wee dogs Inkah and Jett couldn’t get out of the van fast enough - they loved racing about exploring.
Becs made us a healthy salad for lunch and afterwards we spent the afternoon chatting, relaxing, walking and soaking up the ambience of this little slice of paradise.
How lucky are we to have this oasis on our doorstep!
