Kina Shells, Surf, and Mt Taranaki: My W&W Trip

The waves were pumping in Taranaki last week. So I packed up my surfboards (and a few kina shells) and called it a "business" trip.

I'm coining a new term for trips like these: W&W. Work and Waves. Equal parts making jewellery and chasing waves.

I stayed at a tiny cabin by the beach at Fitzroy Holiday Park — awesome friendly staff — and got settled in quickly.

My little work nook was set up in no time. I did an assembly line of kina shell pendants from my best-selling necklace. I couldn't believe how productive I was. Must've been the good night's sleep with actual ASMR sounds of the waves.

My favourite surf spot of the trip was at the rivermouth of Waiwhakaiko River. Still warmish, so I wore my spring suit.

And a meditative way to end each day — sunset beachcombing at Fitzroy Beach. There's something about the light at golden hour on a beach that just resets everything.

W&W mission: complete. I'm now back home, the kina shells made it in one piece, and the bench is calling. Time to get assembling.

With sandy hands and a salty heart,
Rina