The other day it cleared enough to take the dogs to Lyall Bay beach.1 There was a chilly and vigorous stiff Southerly breeze, and the sea was still showing evidence of a healthy swell.
We made our way briskly along the sand, but others were making their way much more swiftly on the water. There were half a dozen kitesurfers enjoying their sport. Most were puddling around at one end of the bay, but one was travelling at high speed parallel to the beach.
I caught a photo of her / him just after a 180° turn to head back away from the airport. I could easily see that it must take a lot of strength to control the kite.
In Wellington we’re very familiar with the wind. We all know just how it feels when the breeze catches your coat and pushes you along, or across, the footpath. It’s easy to imagine the forces this kitesurfer is dealing with.
According to the Wellington Windsurfing Association, kitesurfing at Lyall Bay is not for the inexperienced:
Expert: Lyall Bay
Southerly only. You will need a permission from the Wellington Airport Control Tower! Launch and sail only on the west side of the bay.
1 Wellington and the perpetual storm
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