Apr 1-3 - Nelson Stayed at Joy Garden Villa. Had some trouble finding it so arrived late - 5:30ish. Joy gave me the biggest suite which was beautiful - huge, and lovely patio with a little stream and garden. I had some time to relax after a harrowing ride. Nelson is near the Abel Tasman Trek and known for their arts community. Relaxed that night and slept very well.

Apr 2 - Abel Tasman Day Trip - No time for the whole trek which takes 3 full days so did the next best thing; a boat tour with Wilson's Ferries. I drove there and made the ferry just on time - was turned around about 3 times before I figured out which direction to go - bloody hell!

Once on the ferry, it rides up the coast of the Abel Tasman hike, stopping along the way so you can see each place. On the way back - I dropped off on the Medlands beach to hike down to Torrent Bay and Anchorage which is part of the trek. It is somewhat like the West Coast trail on the East side of Vancouver Island - but not close to as hard. The campgrounds are well maintained and the beaches beautiful - some little friends; yes sand flies…little b*****s! Not as many. The coast is beautiful, just like the rest of the South Island. There is beautiful kayaking here, I so want to come back with Reggie! After a great day, I walked 20min from Joys' to a lovely little bistro for dinner.

Apr 3 am to Picton Ferry - the final day on the South Island. I drove through the Marlborough wine area to Picton for ferry. Unfortunately, only had time for one winery stop - there are many and one could spend a couple of days here. Known for the beautiful Sauvignon Blanc grape but also grows a pretty mean Pinot Noir as well - the wine here has been fantastic! Needed to be at ferry one hour prior, just made it again! The ferry ride is 2.5 hours so can relax finally. On the way over, we wind through the islands and bays - very nice. The North Island arrives in Wellington, the capital of NZ. A semi large City set on the coastal mountains so it is hilly. I drive through to my next stop as I wanted to *get out of town* before dark and a head start for tomorrow!

Apr 3 pm - Palmerston North - stayed at reasonable motel with restaurant next door - easy to find and easy to leave town. The geography is not so stark here - lots of plains, mountains through middle of Island not so dramatic - looks a bit like the prairies.