Makara Beach BBQ

Yesterday we ventured out to the dramatic Makara Beach to cook up some lunch on the beach.
This beach is steep and stony immediately in front of you as you arrive at the beach.  This part of the beach lends itself to very satisfying stone throwing.  In contrast you can take the gentle walk to the left to a sheltered spot from the main beach with plenty of rock pools to explore.
We found a sheltered spot on the main beach to set up camp.  Then the kids were sent off to find driftwood for the fire.  A stone circle is set up to encase the fire but the main purpose is to heat up the rocks to allow us to cook our lunch. Whilst the photographer was distracted with taking the above shot it is believed newspaper, fire lighters and matches were deployed, and voila:
  
The next step is dependant on being a little prepared before veturing out to the beach.  We have a kit bag set up with all the cooking equipment, and just needed to stop for a few supplies on the way.


Cooking began and was quickly devoured by our wind swept group.  We also had some hungry seagulls who keenly awaited for scraps that never came.
 As a final treat we took wooden skewers, which we’d soaked in water to prevent them from catching fire, for toasting marshmallows.  This was the highlight for the kids and the grown ups were only too happy to show them how it is done.
 

Before leaving the beach we took great care to douse the fire and rocks in sea water.

Makara Beach also features in our post about Stones, Water & Cafes.

Scorch-o-Rama Cafe, Scorching Bay

The day we went out to Scorch-o-Rama Café was a stunner.  To be outdoors on a such a beautiful sunny day in the middle of winter is a tonic. 

But as we arrived when the afternoon sun was dropping down behind the hills, we were also pleased to see the café now has a permanent glassed in annex room to extend the covered seating area on the café side of the road.

Scorch-o-rama is better known for its’ seating area across the road on the beach side, where you can dine al fresco.  Which at this time of year is for the hardy.  Yes, that is snow on the Rimutakas in the background.  If you do dine al fresco, you will be rewarded by being waited on by staff wearing high visibility jackets, for crossing the road safely.

Our afternoon tea was delicious, and there was much debate over how to share the Belgium biscuit.  My flat white was perfectly formed with Havana coffee, as proudly displayed on the glass work of the new annex room. 

Normally in summer, we can spend a whole day in Scorching Bay.  The rock pools are full of life to watch, catch and release.  The beach has a gently sloping sandy entry with very little tidal waves, unless a ferry has just gone past.  There are often swimmers, divers, boaters, fishermen and sunbathers sharing this spot. 

Even in winter it is still a great spot to visit.  Rug up and explore the area, safe in the knowledge that you are never far from a hot drink or meal, or a glass of wine or beer.

The cafe and milk bar is open weekends 8am to 6pm and weekdays 8.30am to 5pm.  Open longer hours during the summer nights.

fishermen at Shelly Bay

climbing frame, Scorching Bay

www.scorchorama.co.nz

Ask the Locals are looking forward to festival season, with plenty of entertainment hitting the Capital over the coming weeks.  Stay tuned.