However Hokitika has a quirky side. A long beach is littered with driftwood and a mix of soft sand and washed up pebbles creating a dramatic beach where large waves crash wildly (even in calm weather) and a strong riptide which pushes the currents in many different directions. This alone is rugged and beautiful. Humans have made their mark here too.
The scatterings of driftwood and pebbles have been turned into works of beach art. An incredible array of sights greet visitors to the beach and create a unique backdrop to the majestic ocean. A driftwood cow grazes on sand, serpents with arched backs and pebble tails lurch from the sand, rings of plaited branches stand tall facing the oncoming tide, dragons and other unworldly creatures project from sand and pebbles. The whole view is surreal and is added to by visitors and locals alike.
The other unique thing Hokitika offers is the chance to go fossicking. This appears to be a New Zealand thing. So I went fossicking. This is where you comb the beach in search of gems and in the case of Hokitika the precious stone Pounamu (greenstone). Pounamu is now quite rare so lots of people and local artists scour the beaches for washed up pieces.
Fingers crossed I have found a piece. I can get it verified and officially certified while here. Maybe on return to the UK to have a go at making jewellery?
Lovelly place Hokitika. Very quirky and funky.
Fingers crossed
[Posted from Mrs Foggs super cool iphone]