The derelict Onekaka wharf provided a motif for Doris Lusk's painting in the mid 1960s and was also painted by her close friend, Leo Bensemann. The sea has been slowly devouring the remains of the wharf since these two artists worked here in the 1960s. I can see why they were drawn to this region. Once you've made the arduous journey over the Takaka Hill and negotiated the 300-odd bends in the road, golden sandy beaches with a backdrop of native forests and beautiful pristine rivers await you. Another bonus is the warm climate – well warm by South Island standards.