26: The Island: Island Bay, Wellington, New Zealand

Sunday, 24 June 2007: Woke up this morning to a beautiful, warm, sunny day (after a week of cold wind and rain) and a rising south swell off of the roaring 40th parallel. Took a drive along the coast, running the usual circuit. Came upon "The Island" just off of Island Bay with only a few guys out and the odd right-hander screaming down the line. Somewhat inconsistent, strong offshores, and exposed rocks on the inside, but still worth the long paddle across the channel. It was rather frigid with the wind whipping across our backs (and my head without a cap). The following photos capture the essence of the day. Fun surf, few people in the water, idyllic scenery. NZ: when it's on, it's really on!

Island Bay peeler screaming down the line. Taken just before I paddled out.


Scenery off my right shoulder. View of the South Island with snow-covered peaks.


Island Bay community. Houses nestled up in the hills overlooking the break.


Island Bay community backdrop. Idyllic setting with boats moored in a calm bay, people walking their dogs, cyclists riding by, runners coming by just having run a marathon in town this morning.