Wed, 25th Mar, 2026 (part3) Geoff & Virginia’s place, Taramakau Settlement to The Strand campsite, Reefton, NZ (exploring Reefton)

Lots of rolling honey-coloured grassy hills as we near Reefton.

A few homes along the hillside then over the Inangahua River and into Reefton. The freedom camping area is beside the river.

Pulled in The Strand self-contained campsite. One spot left - lucky!

Had our drinks then walked upstream along the river edge. Info about The Strand.

Another disc golf course.

Continued on the track. Looking across to the Powerhouse area. The sun is still up but there is a thin cloud over it.

Onto the Powerhouse Walk. Across the suspension bridge - clear water.

Lots of information.

Looking along the canal and water race that leads to the powerhouse.

Looks like some rebuilding is happening. The river water is let out here.

Headed back to the suspension bridge.

Lovely big trees and flowers as we headed back towards town. I remember staying in ‘motor camps’ which we call caravan parks.

Found more info as we wandered along.

I had a tinkle on the ivories. Love the mouse.

Checked out the display in the Bearded Mining Company and Steve panned for some gold - none there unfortunately, just some coal.

More history.

A map of other things in the area.

Lovely mural.

A sad reminder of the lives lost in mining accidents.

Great map showing free camps etc on West Coast.

Back to the camper. Our route for today.

Read for a while then cooked dinner. More travellers pulled in trying to find a spot.

Quiet night with just the sound of the river to lull us to sleep.