Abel Tasman National Park

Wouldnt you like to own this??
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Our first real chance to look at our surroundings, and it seems like we have arrived in Paradise.  The beach is golden sand, not too busy and a clear water's edge.  There are only 2 restaurants in the whole place, and only 1 road.  But it seems busy in comparison to other places we have visited in New Zealand, so must be a popular destination.

We talk to people next to us and find out the waters are too shallow for fishing, so the plan for the day changes.  We head into Abel Tasman Park via a "water taxi".  This in reality was a large boat on the way into Abel Tasman, and a much smaller speedboat on the way out.  Had to hang onto Matthew tightly as he kept trying to lean over the edge.  He has no fear sometimes.

The waters were warm and clear, and the beach long, quiet, golden, and just beautiful

Drawing in the sand
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We went to a place recommended by the information centre called "The Anchorage".  And well, this place was absolutely spectacular.  I have never been on such a beach.  The waters were warm and clear, and the beach long, quiet, golden, and just beautiful.  Matthew couldnt wait to get out of his clothes and go swimming in the sea.  He absolutely loved it, splashing around for around 2 hours, without stopping once.  We all enjoyed ourselves, it was probably the best day we have had together as a family.  Lloyd slept most of the time we were out, we kept him in the shade in a babygro (which although a bit warmer than going naked does protect all his body from the sun). I never knew New Zealand had such wonderful beaches, I can only liken it to going somewhere like the film "The Beach". I never knew New Zealand had such beauty within it, and especially didnt expect such a beach on the south island (I was expecting snow!).

A watchful eye
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There were lots of activities that we couldnt do because of the children, like kayaking and walking (or tramping as they say here).  We missed the walking part a lot, as this is something me and Steve really enjoy.  Kayaking would have been good too, so I resolve to return when the kids are older and do this.  The opportunities for fun were massive.  Some people who had their own boats or chartered one for day, were going across to beaches that had no people on them, and there were plenty around.  People were all very nice and respectful, with no-one being an idiot.  There was absolutely no litter anywhere to be seen.