Exploring the Remote Wonders of Cloudy Bay
Located at the southeast end of Cloudy Bay in Marlborough, this area is not your typical tourist destination. However, it holds intriguing points of interest, such as the Wairau Bar and the SS Kennedy shipwreck. The region's remote and wild nature makes it a unique spot to explore, especially for those interested in maritime history.
Discovering the SS Kennedy Shipwreck
The SS Kennedy, a ship that operated from 1864 until 1929, was intentionally sunk at the Wairau Bar in 1929 to help create a breakwater. This ship replaced the Waverley, which had been similarly sunk in 1928 but was later swept towards the Wairau Lagoons river. The remains of the Waverley can be seen along the Wairau Lagoons walk, adding another layer of historical intrigue to the area.
A Wild and Windswept Landscape
The southeast end of Cloudy Bay is characterised by its windswept and stony beach, accessible from the Wairau Bar. While the rugged landscape offers a striking view, it is not suitable for swimming. The area's remote and untamed beauty provides a stark contrast to more typical beach destinations, making it a fascinating spot for those seeking solitude and natural scenery.
How to Get There
To reach the southeast end of Cloudy Bay, start by crossing the Wairau River behind Spring Creek, accessible from State Highway 1, north of Blenheim. Turn sharply right onto Wairau Bar Road and continue until you reach the Wairau Bar. From there, proceed a short distance towards the river mouth to find the SS Kennedy shipwreck on the edge of the bar. While in the area, you might also consider exploring the Wairau Lagoons walk to see the remains of the Waverley.
