Fossil Point at the base of Farewell Spit at the northernmost tip of the South Island of New Zealand
one of the shorter walks in the area is the Spit Track Circuit, starting from the carpark at the base of the spit
across to Fossil Point to begin with, 2km one way and just a 30 minute walk
You head straight across the Triangle Flat open farmland. Follow the orange markers across a few stiles until you reach the coastal bush which gradually leads you uphill. As you wander up beneath the pines, you might notice the worn tracks made by the stock, revealing sand just beneath the grass. You will reach a sign at the crest of the hill directing you either right, down to Fossil Point. A short descent leads you to Ocean Beach, the outer side of Farewell Spit. Following the beach as far left as it will go leads you to Fossil Point – huge mudstone cliffs and fallen rocks revealing fossilised shells and worm casts embedded in them. Keep your eyes out for the seals who like to sun themselves here but keep a respectable distance – they can get aggressive.
Once you’ve had a bit of an explore here, follow the Spit out for about 2km until you see another orange marker signaling the entrance to the 4WD Spit Track which takes you across to the Inner Beach of the Spit. On a clear day have a good look on the horizon – it’s possible to make out the peak of Mount Egmont/ Taranaki in the North Island
Once you reach the Inner Beach you will notice it’s a completely different world. The vast sand plain is visible at low tide and seeing it, you will understand how whales can easily be stranded here. You will also notice a huge population of Black Swan. In fact, Farewell Spit is home to over ninety species of birds. Another 2km leads you back to your car, where you might choose to picnic. There are several other tracks in the area too, so you may wish to return for another explore.
Cache is an eclips container, which contains: A logbook & Travelbug. Bring your own pen.
Please ensure you replace the cache where you found it, tucked away and well covered so that it can't be seen or hide even better
FTF --> Kiwi Explorere