I thoroughly enjoyed this walk and would highly recommend it. The natural and human cultural history of Oneki was respectfully and knowledgeably related by Karen, our truly excellent guide for the day. Perhaps because public visits to Oneki are new, the place felt largely pristine. There were a lot of male sea lions lolling all over the beaches or swimming in the bay as we arrived. We kept a safe distance but it was fabulous to see them up close. The walk was easy for anyone of average fitness. I would have loved to stay longer, another half hour to an hour. Perhaps adding a stop for lunch would be a nice idea.
Our guide Karen made this trip extra special for me personally. I am a descendant of Ann Wharetutu and George Newton, a founding family of Rakiura. With the grace of the other tour members, Karen enabled me to visit the gravesite of some of my Newton family/whanau, a few of the approximately 250 Maori and mixed-race people who had lived together on Oneki in the 1800s. I will never forget this kindness. It was a very special day for me.
