So we boarded the senior citizens day-out boat over to Stewart Island. Safe in the knowledge that, as at least 40 years younger than our nearest rival, we'd be one of the first to the life vests. The crossing was a little choppy and with slightly ominous looking clouds in the sky, I was glad we'd chosen to leave the tent on the mainland.

Once again, we'd neglected to book any form of accomodation. Luckily Ann came to the rescue - taking in stray backpackers in need of a good home. Lovely lovely - and tea and toast in the morning. Result.

Our day was mainly filled with wandering about. Did a few little walks round the island, ooh-ing and ah-ing at various pretty/stupid/funny/beautiful landmarks. Almost gave up on one walk as the route became unpassable. But defeat was not an option.

Found giant chess by the waterfront and surprised myself at first how good, and then how bad I was at the game. Did manage a check mate though. Happy days. Some old guy found it pretty amusing as I strained not to do a victory dance...

After just one night we headed back to the mainland (boat full of school kids this time, making me feel like the afore mentioned pensioner). Stopped back in Bluff for a photo of a big sign which is at the end of the highway. It wasn't there the first time we made the stop. Someone had nicked it. I should point out that this sign is at least 2.5 meters tall. Heavy. And bolted to the ground. I was almost impressed. Anyway, London is about 18,900k away. Love how the distances vary about 3,000k between the top and bottom of this tiny island...

Headed back up north, through the west coast this time (stopping briefly in Queenstown again - it just gets you!) and finally back to Christchurch. Not before 'enjoying' possibly the most disappointing lunch to date... After passing multiple Subways, we were determined to eat somewhere else ($3.90 for sub of the day - that's less than 2 quid! but had been lunch and dinner the previous day...) we found a 'nice little town bakery'. I should have backed off when the clingfilm wrapped blob was removed from the fridge (from the back, not one of the pleasent looking ones from the front) and shoved in the microwave. Anyway, suffice to say the 'chicken' was just plain scary. And I didn't realise lettuce could look so dry, yet soggy at the same time. It was an experience.

Survived it though. So all good! xx