Rounding Cape Reinga - Cape Maria Van Diemen

[Chewing Gum 17]

Been around the capes 3 times but I am a slow learner.

Every time a bit of a slow trip due to being too close in and getting caught in the tide rip.

Am planning to go around to Kaipara again in the new year so would be interested in any thoughts on an optimal distance off the capes. Some of the RNI guys likely have a few ideas.

[darkside 61]

It can get strong around there. This was on a flat calm day. Maybe the decision to turn towards Spirits Bay was taken a little early?

 

 

[Steve Pope 243]

I have found it important to work the tides, ( , cape maria van dieman, ) I have been caught a couple of times as well, I have tried standing off several miles, all to no avail. If possible anchor up till the tide is in your favour. I have tried inside and outside Pandora bank, inside is easier and with the tide you can make very good southing. Have a look at Whangape harbour, keep to Stb entering, 3 to 4m at half tide. No. 1 eyeball will show where not to go! Like the Kaipara 1m or less swell on an incoming tide is best. You can go several miles up stream, you need to find a good depth hole if you decide to stay for a day or 2. We soon learned to use a drogue to stay in the hole we were in as sometimes the wind overrode the tide and left us stranded on a muddy rocky bank, once we learned the drogue trick all was easy.

No cell or ipad reception.

[Chewing Gum 17]

Last time we went around going south we were probably 2 miles off. A fishing boat going around at the same time was probably about 5 miles off I would say.

Steve how is cell reception in the northern Kaipara around Pahi, Tinopai, Batley Tapora, Kellys ?

[Steve Pope 243]

I havn't thought about local cell reception all that much, being of a generation that struggles to find a reason to use a cell phone. That being said we have nephews and nieces who and lots of other "young" ones, living in the Whakapirau, Pahi, Batley areas, I have never heard them complain. Some local "farming" households use Uber but most manage with Spark or Vodafone, I'm sure there will be spots that aren't so good, but you maybe move to another close by spot and all will work again. Certainly much better than Spark at the Barrier.

[Chewing Gum 17]

Cheers Steve - might give you a bell when we get up Pahi way.