When we arrrived in Nelson we were all suprised at how big of a place it seemed, we´d been used to small little towns with not many people! Ash was very happy however as within a few hours we were on the beach and he was having a cheeky kitesurf. This topped his day off nicely whilst we all sat on the beach enjoying the sun and scenery. For dinner we tried out the hostels BBQ which was great! Much to our delight we were also surprised with free home made scones for afters (well we all decided we couldnt wait and ate it whilst we were cooking!).

Ash and I had done abit of research and reliased that Abel Tasman National Park nearby should not be missed whilst we were in the area and so we all decided on a route we would take for the following days activity. A 3 - 4 hour walk to Anchorgae Bay (around 11km) and then a water taxi back. We set off just before midday all packed up with water, sandwiches and plenty of suntan cream ready to explore.

We had such a great day and the views were just amazing. Clear blue skies, turquiose / green waters, luscious rainforest and clean white sand. The area is so unspolit and reminded us alot of Asia but without the sellers on the beach pestering you to buy fruit, a drink, jewelry, etc... Idyllic to say the least! Pete particuarly enjoyed looking for the traps to catch possums which we realised were highlighted by the red triangle dotted around the rainforest and bits of red tape. We made numerous stops along the way both for lunch and to take in the fantastic views. As ive already said, the area is so unspoilt and although we only caught a glimpse of it, we felt truly satisfied with the trip we´d made.

When we reached Anchorage Bay it wasnt that clear as to where we should catch the water taxi from. It said to be there at 5.30pm, 15 minutes before it would depart. After a few nervous moments from Julie and I that we were going to have to walk all the way back, the water taxi came into sight! We had considered doing jet boating whilst in New Zealand but im glad we didnt pay for it as this ride was a tamer version of it. Luckily we had all managed to get seats at the front of the boat so didnt get wet unlike those at the back. A great way to top off a good day walking.

After another BBQ dinner and home made muffins this time we settled down to a good nights sleep before heading to Picton the following day. Our time in the South Island was nearing to an end but it certainly didnt disappoint; the scenery just got better and better.