16:45.10S 179:54.12E

 

We tucked ourselves as close as possible behind Yanuyanuwiri Island to get good shelter from the strong winds which were predicted to last for a week.

There are three houses on this island and soon we met Frank Fischer and his wife to be Lugy who live there with uncle Edward his daughter Sharleen & grandson Giovan. Frank and Lugy also look after Arthur, Frank’s little brother.

Life is very busy in Viani Bay, where the majority are descendants of mixed marriages going back five to seven generations of English-Fijian unions, so the names are all very familiar: Fischer, Evans, Smith to name a few.

After two weeks it is very hard to leave this wonderful bay and community. We will cherish the many stories and experiences people have shared with us.

During the strong winds only the NZ yacht “Blackjack” with Phil and Helen and three children were in the Bay, later “Slip Away” with Jan and Rich (USA) arrived and the cruising activities with Jack Fischer started again. A food shopping trip to Taveuni Island, walks, diving, Sunday church and feast.

Catherine spend a lovely morning at the Kindergarten and had some good times with Saiki, the teacher.

The weather is settled, the sea is flat and clear and more sailing yachts are in the bay now.

 

           

                                                                                                                        Meet Lydia, the pet pig (She is huge!)

 

 

           With Jack Fischer in our traditional Fijian Outfit!

 

 

 

 

 

          

 

Two dives on the Rainbow Reef for Paul

                                                                                         

 

Frank getting Coconuts for us all

 

    Paul, Andrew and Richie watching!

 

            We all agree “It’s delicious!!!”   

 

      Seru and Richie with mum Alisi

 

    Regular visits to Piggy to get rid of our organic rubbish:      

 

Sharleen and her son Giovan is giving Catherine a special shell:

 

        Giovan washing our dinghy: 

 

 

 

 

              Saiki waiting for a dinghy pick up by Paul  

 

 

                                           Endless walks around the Bay

 

 

 

 

                      

 

            Amazed by the mangroves at low water!

 

 

                       

 

        Evening Activities: The Fruit-bats are out 

 

 

 

    Good Bye dinner on Kahia with Frank and Lugy: Frank’s special clam dish with onions, garlic and coconut milk (No chillies for us!)