Call it therapy...

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It began with sailing ships and their need for tall masts and straight spars.   Then steamers from Helensville to Dargaville via remote settlements, early bush camps and mill towns.  Today its recreational and the occasional commercial fisherman or charter vessel that churn the green grey waters of the Kaipara Harbour.   This west coast harbour is a study in contrasts.   Macrocarpa, pohutukawa, and mangroves line the shore while young kauri rickets add interest to the landscape.   Strategically placed port and starboard markers tell a story to those who know the sea.    Cemeteries, steep red roofed churches and place names tell graphic stories.  
In the wheelhouse owner/operator Terry Somers shares his love of these waterways
with tales of tall ships, rail-heads and sand dredging.
Behind him, a small white lace curtain adds a touch of home as it moves in response to the gentle sea breeze.  Large shiny kettles crowd the gas stove in the compact galley as 'Big Red' (aka Sheryl), pours all day cups of tea.
"Was this the boat that was on the cream trip in the Bay of Islands?" asks a silver-headed passenger. 
"Yes, Kewpie II was built up there in 1958" Sheryl replies.
"Last time I was on this boat I was about nine years old and it was huge."
We laugh...
There's a nice roll as we sight Kaipara Heads, Pouto and Northern Wairoa River on our way up to The Funnel past the 1860's Batley Hotel.           
Then we turn, and as the sun passes across the stern, we return to Port Albert wharf where we boarded 4.5 hours ago.     We've retraced the old steamer and sailing ship routes through the sheltered estuary waters of times gone by.  In cafe on the hill, our conversation is stimulated further by the front page of the Herald as heat rises from paper wrapped fish and chips.    
This trip and precious friends could be considered a form of therapy for invigorating and inspiring our souls. 

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