I've continued my solo exploration today, looking around Nelson and then going tramping to the centre of New Zealand!

I started off by having a quick look at the cathedral and having a VERY brief scoot about the Nelson Provincial Museum (it was boring). I couldn't really decide what to do next so headed to the tourist information centre and picked myself an easy "one hour return walk" to the official centre of New Zealand. It's in the middle of the Botanic Reserve and is marked by a big silver spire which you can see from the middle of town.

What sounded like a pleasant stroll was actually a bloody trek up a massive hill, with what seemed like practically sheer climbs at points. Now, I knew it would be uphill but I didn't realise quite how steep it would be and I very nearly turned back several times. I had to dig deep into my limited stores of motivation to keep myself going, let me tell you!

I think it took me about 45 minutes to get up there (with lots of breaks to sit on benches and pant) but it was worth it because you could see all over Nelson, down into the green hills of the Maitai Valley and over at the mountainous peaks of Abel Tasman National Park on the horizon. And it was glorious sunshine too which was lovely. I did nearly come a cropper on the perilous downhill track though due to my grip-free Converse, only just managing to stay upright! I think the time has come to swallow my vanity and buy some sensible walking shoes (yes mum, you can say "I told you so" now!).

We're off sea kayaking at Abel Tasman tomorrow, which we're really looking forward to, so I should have some good photos for you when I write next.

Love you all loads x x x