April 19, 2016
For several reasons, this is probably one of the least-visited areas of Abel Tasman National Park, at least for boaters. First, these islands are out of the way, separated from the rest of the park’s anchorages by the big headland (and several miles) between Tasman and Golden Bays. Second, being in an area open to prevailing winds, these small islands offer very little protection. Only in very calm conditions is it feasible to anchor overnight. Finally, the combination of shallow water and private moorings leave room for only one sailing yacht to anchor in the best area.
This anchorage is behind the southernmost of the Tata Islands, Ngawhiti Island, and it’s where we were headed. It was with great dismay that we spotted someone was already there! Not willing to give up, we decided to motor around behind little Motu Island and see if we could make something work. We found a reasonable spot, and while it was a little rollier than the first spot, it would do just fine. –Cyndi
