Early rise this morning as we had a fair distance to cover and we didn't want to rush it. Unfortunately, we woke with a start….. Dee's alarm hadn't gone off? She'd set it for half six so those who hadn't showered the night before, could do so leisurely. Dee woke at a quarter to seven…. Jumped out of bed and sounded the alert!!!

Those who needed to, went through the shower; breakfast for those who wanted it, consumed; dishes washed and all put away. Cases packed and loaded into the car. Thankfully, this bit goes like a well-oiled machine and we managed to hit the road 15 minutes earlier than anticipated at 08.15

We travelled back up towards Greystone before turning off towards Arthur's Pass, which takes us through the mountain range that runs north to south.

After our disappointment of the cancelled flight over the mountains and glacier the day before because of inclement weather, we had our fingers crossed for clear weather to enjoy the views. Once again, climbing into the foothills, we were surrounded by low clouds. We could see the sun trying to burn its way through. We noticed a single tack railway line, running alongside the road, that stayed with us for many a mile.

But alas, no trains!

We started to climb some very steep inclines, leaving the railway track to meander its way alongside the river flowing down from the Otira Gorge.

Onwards and upwards we climbed and soon started negotiating some very sharp bends, climbing continuously, all the while shrouded in mist and or low cloud, which prevented us from seeing anything but the road ahead!

Out of the mist we spied a beautiful bridge - viaduct crossing one side of the gorge to the other. The far side was enveloped in mist, making it look surreal! Sadly, not a place to stop and try and capture it, which is a shame as it would have made a stunning image!

On reaching the summit, which seemed an anti-climax, the sun broke through and our descent was in brilliant sunshine!

We were treated to some beautiful scenery on our way down, and true to form, we had to stop at traffic lights for road works. (Keeping up the tradition of having to negotiate roadworks on remote stretches of road)!
Looking back, we were treated to snow-capped mountains, so an obligatory stop for photos was ordered. Duly shot, back in the charabanc and onwards a short distance to just outside for more homemade meat pies!
Trev tried a cheese and beef one, Paul just beef, Dee and John tried egg and bacon pie, (I can hear some of you shouting, that's a quiche…. but it wasn't)!!! Lis had a date scone and Pat had Lasagne! I can report, all delicious!

Suitably fed and watered, it was back on the road to our final destination of Kaikoura.
Soon, the railway reappeared, to follow us like an obedient dog, hugging the road, sometimes to our left, then on our right. Criss-crossing as we progressed.
Then we saw a train, sadly, it was well below us and obscured by trees; so no chance of a photo!
Soon though, it disappeared again and it wasn't until we found ourselves approaching the coast that the line suddenly popped up again. Only this time, there was a train coming towards us. (Much to the delight of one Mr Reid)!!

But far too quickly to capture it on camera! The line runs right alongside the road with no fence at all? (I wonder how many fatalities occur because of this)?
Thankfully, our accommodation was before entering the town, but up a very steep drive, causing a few sharp intakes of breath from the back seats! Once unpacked and ensconced, it affords us some stunning views out to sea and down the coast!
Not the best place we've had the privilege of staying in, but adequate.
Dee once again got herself busy making dinner, whilst Pat set about sorting out a couple of loads for the washing machine.
Enquiries were made for those who wanted to, to go on a trip to see whales and dolphins tomorrow…… watch this space!