Whistlestop, nighttime tour of Christchurch - we're here for 12 hrs and most of that we'll be sleeping following a fantastic trainjourney from West to East side of S.Island via Arthur's pass. This is reputed to be one of the top 4 train journeys in the world, so in honour of Pete we changed our plans at the last minute and booked a return ticket. The scenery was phenomenal topped off with a bottle of wine, the only thing threatening to spoil it was a 70yr old in front that couldn't stop humming for the first part of the journey! Didn't bother ipod ears next to me so I hummed back and then we had peace and quiet.......perfect. So far amazed by South Island scenery. We've been really lucky with the weather and managed to cram in pancake rocks and a spectacular coastal hike in Abel Tasman (via a water taxi and a seal colony). We're getting used to Mork our new vehicle -a white nissan sunny -would fit in a treat bk home. Not quite acclimatised to the backpackers hostels and had time out at a motel last night (clean, own kitchen, bathroom and a large t.v. . . . we do miss home comforts occasionally). Up early for return journey -then off to see glaciers and some winter adventures. Missing you all Love Ed and Ruth P.S. - Glad you liked the pressie Vic, hope you had a great day P.P.S. Ed's beard more ginger in reality than photo indicates P.P.P.S. Fi and Mike - since when have you enjoyed camping.... sounds like you need to do a few more OOH's sessions and book back into hotels!!!!!