Following Stu's suggestion we decided we would visit Hanmer Springs before going to Kaikoura. With new Sat Nav helping guide the way we made it within a couple of hours.
We spent a great afternoon in the sun, enjoying the thermal pools. The springs had rock pools, & sulphur pools with temperatures between 36 & 42 degrees. We did engage in some swimming in the pool as well, can't all be about relaxing.
After picking up some sandwiches we navigated ourselves to Kaikoura as the Tom Tom failed to pick up a GPS signal. The drive was spectacular & made detour well worth as we wound our way through the mountains. Hanmer & Kaikoura are both part of the Alpine Scenic Triangle & I can see why. We checked in to our Motel that had a luxury spa cubical which had a remote control!
Dinner was at the Crayfish cafe in central Kaikoura that is very quiet as this is the off season.