Taylors Mistake - surely not?
I’m not sure why this beach is called what it is, or what Taylor’s story was. I’m sure there is a story to uncover but I haven’t yet discovered it. To be honest I don’t really want to. Taylors Mistake is a surfing beach tucked away over the cliff side from the main settlement of Sumner. You have to drive up and down a real narrow twisting road to reach the car park which no doubt puts a few people off. I love arriving early in the morning when the only other people around are hardy surfers hitting the waves in their thickly lined wetsuits. The beach is usually empty at this time and the peace is beguiling. It’s a lovely stretch to wander down and if it’s warm enough paddle in the sea. To the right hand side of the beach are a couple of small baches, New Zealand holiday homes, that withstand the tides and coastal elements. They are just a short hop, step and jump up from the beach. They also mark the start of a pathway that takes you up over the headland revealing breath taking views of Banks Peninsula.