An intriguing granite formation can be seen off the coast of
Tasman Bay in the South Island. It is a
naturally cleft rock in the shape of an apple that has been cut in half.
The Maori legend associated with this Rock is that two
feuding gods were fighting to possess it.
Eventually they split it in half, giving rise to the Maori name of
Tokangawha, meaning “burst open rock.”
There is a steep walkway down (I counted 115 steps!) to the beach from the carpark.
Like nearby Kaiteriteri, the sand on the beach is a golden
colour (it is composed of mostly quartz and mica particles), only here it also
has some black ironsand threaded through it.
It was a pretty little bay, but would have been much nicer
if the day hadn’t been so overcast.
It is always fun to seek out these lesser-known spots to
visit.
Enjoy your day J
Margaret.
LINKED TO My Corner of the World
Thank you. I've enjoyed my walk along the beach. It's overcast here in the UK too, which does put a damper on things.
ReplyDeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteBeautiful scenes and photos. The steps can be a workout. I like the split rock and the view of the beach. Have a great day!
It is very satisfying to discover these out-of-the-way places, and there is a good deal of natural beauty and interesting geology here. The Maori legend adds spice to the adventure.
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of that rock. An interesting formation. Those golden beaches are beautiful
ReplyDeleteLove those legends. So much more fascinating than the scientific explanation.
ReplyDeleteThat little beach would be beautiful whatever the weather, sun or rain or anything else!!! Love the image of the split rock. That must have been a very loud bang!
ReplyDeleteWhat gorgeous pictures, many years ago we vacationed in New Zealand, had such a good time.
ReplyDeleteHugs Diane
I love the places you share...this is interesting.
ReplyDeleteAnd I meant to tell you yesterday I loved your snow shot.
That is an interesting rock....it really does look like an apple split in two. The beach is lovely and no doubt worth the 115 steps. Too bad the weather was less than lovely. Hopefully you can revisit on a sunny day.
ReplyDeleteThat looks a delightful bay.
ReplyDeleteI remember seeing that rock years ago - thank for the wonderful memories it evoked
ReplyDeleteStay safe
Blessings
Maxine
What an extraordinary rock! Love the photos!
ReplyDeleteOMG, Tasman - beautiful. Thank you for the reminders. Kayaked round a bit of the coast there years ago, and possibly my favourite part of the country.
ReplyDeleteThe rock is a real curiosity. I would love to know how the feuding gods managed to split it.
ReplyDeleteObviously lightning, Graham. They were gods, so what else would they use? :))
DeleteVery pretty bay. I love the way that this country is so full of beautiful spots.
ReplyDeleteThat part of the coast is truly spectacular! Thanks for these photos. I couldn't do 115 steps any more!
ReplyDelete'My Corner of the World' is happy to see you this week! Thanks for linking.
It is beautiful, thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteis´s a wonderful place
ReplyDelete