Havelock

Green Mussel Capital of the South Island

Today we head to Havelock the Green Lipped Mussel Capital of the South Island. Aquaculture is big business here. You know these shellfish are Havelock’s claim to fame immediately upon entering the town. How? Take a look at the roof on The Mussel Pot.  

When we passed through this town two days ago it was quiet but there was a middle-aged hitchhiker by the side of the road with balloons wrapped around his head. I’m sorry we didn’t at least take a photo because he was really making an effort above and beyond what one would think necessary to catch a lift, but Duncan said we couldn’t take a photo without providing a lift and our car was too full. When we came into town today, he was gone so he must have either walked to Blenheim or caught the attention of a more obliging driver.

Green Mussel Chowder

Upon the advice of Ian and Pat we opt for The Slip Inn and dine on Green Mussel chowder with home baked bread. The clouds part for the hour we linger, and we enjoy the sunshine while watching small boats ‘slip in’ to the water in front of us. Then we drive the sinuous Scenic Queen Charlotte Drive all the way back to Picton with a short hike around Cullen Point and views across the bay to Havelock and out to the sound. Duncan says whenever the Kiwis describe a place as scenic there is a long and winding road to follow.

The weather at Marlborough Sound has probably been the worst we’ve experienced thus far on our trip. We’ve had rain or overcast skies for two days here but we’re not complaining. We’re waiting for some sunshine to cycle around the vineyards. The New Zealand police are quite strict about drink and driving laws but they don’t regulate the wine tasting mountain bikers. I guess they figure a drunken biker would be more likely to harm only himself by falling into a ditch on a country road.

View from Cullen Point