Coasters

Birdlings Flat to Le Bons Bay (1x6)

Data di messa in onda: Feb 26, 2011

This week's coastal journey begins at Birdlings Flat on the south coast of Banks Peninsula. The long stretch of gravel that makes up Kaitorete Spit was a major highway for the people of Ngai Tahu, and at its end is Lake Forsyth or Te Roto o Wairewa. Al meets up with Robyn Wybrow of the Wairewa Runanga who explains to Al the huge significance the lake has to Ngai Tahu. Al continues along the spectacular and exposed southern coast to Akaroa where he meets historian Steve Lowndes. Akaroa is known for its French influence and Steve tells a few stories from this era in its history. Akaroa has over 200 colonial houses and Al's next stop is with Josie Martin, the proud owner of the Giant's House. Josie's passion for colour, mosaic and large-scale objects is reflected in her beautiful sculpture garden. Al continues his coastal journey at Onuku, where he puts on his walking shoes and hits the spectacular Banks Peninsula Track. First stop is Flea Bay where he joins farmers and conservationists Francis and Shireen Helps who have been hand-raising an orphaned white-flippered penguin. Further around the coast Al descends the track at Stony Bay, home to Sonia and Mark Armstrong who offer an oasis for travellers overnighting on the walkway, featuring the creative use of old objects in its design. Reaching the end of his walk, he joins resident writer Fiona Farrell who shares a poem on the shore of Otanerito or Long Bay. Then it's a short hop to Le Bons Bay on the eastern tip of Banks Peninsula with Garry Brittenden who takes Al out in his tinny to see some of the stunning wildlife that Banks Peninsula offers, Hector dolphins and New Zealand fur seals. Along the way they pull up a few cray pots and are lucky enough to catch some great kaimoana for a meal of Crayfish, Crab and Tuatua Spaghetti with Arabiatta Sauce.