Working around Road Closures

I had arranged to meet up with our SLG friends for lunch on Friday at Fisherman’s Table, Paekakariki,  but there was a problem earlier in the week.  SH 59 which runs along the coast was closed from Pukerua Bay to Paekakariki due to a land slip.  This wouldn't affect us as we were further north, but our friends were travelling up from the Hutt Valley.  Goodness me, what to do, would our lunch go ahead?  A few phone calls later and it was all worked out.  First I had to make sure that the restaurant was still open and operating – yes it was.  But the receptionist informed me  that there was a further slip just north of the restaurant, when a car fell down the Paekakariki Hill!  We have had an awful lot of rain fall this last week, no wonder there were slips happening.  Our friends would have to take the Transmission Gully Road, exit a little north of Paekakariki, turn around and drive a short way back to the restaurant.

SH 59 closed at the restaurant

We all arrived safely, thank goodness, the others were there ahead of us, we were running a little late due to the traffic and speed restrictions on the way down.  Never mind, I’m sure they could chat amongst themselves.

Fisherman’s Table

There they were, we found our table and settled down.  Of course we had plenty to chat about.  Then it was time to check the menu and make our choices – we all had fish although there were other things on the menu.  And surprisingly, most of us also had a dessert.  That doesn't usually happen, but I expect the others heard me declare that I really must have a “Crème Brule”, a special favourite of mine. 

I spied a rather misty looking Kapiti Island through the window.  On a nice sunny day people can choose to eat outside, if they wish.

Kapiti Island off the coast

After a pleasant couple of hours we left to make our way home.  Goodness knows why, but I didn't get photos of our table, too much talking, I expect.

We were affected by the road closure just north of the restaurant with the slip on Paekakariki Hill involving a car, so we were told.  Contractors were working on clearing the road and we were directed around a few corners, through the small township, then back onto the motorway.  Our drive home was uneventful, just as we like it.  It was a nice day out, catching up with our SLG friends.

 

Detour this way