A trip to Mason Bay - part 3

We had planned to have lunch on the beach but the fierce westerly gales and passing hail showers suggested that we find a more sheltered place. I love the wild nature of west coasts but was unprepared for the large quantities of rubbish that were all around. Apparently the currents move around Stewart Island in such a way that all floating debris, sooner or later, washes up on the west. There used to be an annual beach clean up but the cost of ferrying volunteers and fadges of rubbish got too expensive. We picked up some of the smaller stuff to bring out but it didn't make much of a difference.

Jen on a windswept Mason Bay (looking south)

Mason Bay looking north

Duck Creek - our turnoff up to the Mason Bay Hut

Before we continue up to the hut, I'll add a few photos of the plants/herbs we found growing in the sand dunes - let me know if you can identify them!

Native sedge, pīngao

Nothing but rock and a few grains of sand surround these tiny plants

A mini-mountain of ??

Close-up of last photo

Kiwi footprints and probe marks

We reckon this sand dune was going through a hair transplant (see below)

I wonder which is the windward side??

The DOC hut is about 1km walk from the beach, the first half through low-growing scrub and the last half through a wide grassy path as though you are wandering in someone's garden. Dracophyllum, manuka, harakeke and ferns line the path, cutting out the wind and making for a delightful walk.

Walk from beach to Mason Bay Hut

The Mason Bay DOC hut sleeps 20 (with 3 sleeping areas) and looks warm and comfortable. It costs $5 per person per night and isn't on a booking system. Last Christmas there were 37 staying there one night, what a squeeze! We recommend people to bring sleeping mats and/or tents to ensure a more comfortable stay.

Mason Bay Hut - kitchen/dining area

Mason Bay Hut - one of 3 sleeping areas

Mason Bay Hut - there are several wall panels with great info

Mason Bay Hut - view from the deck