Wellington is known as the windiest city in NZ, it has had winds up to double hurricane force, more later.

We spent a day exploring the city including the cable car up to the botanic gardens which were really great and free!! We were standing on a street looking at the guide book and this old guy tapped me on the shoulder, expecting to be asked for money it was a real surprise when he said "do you need directions, you look lost?" He put us right and wished us a good day. This is typical of the help you can get from kiwis.

The next day we had our ferry booked to the South Island, a three hour trip and because of the wind it can be rough! We woke up to rain squalls and high wind so we were expecting the worst. It turned out to be ok except for the hour when crossing the Cook Straights which was bumpy, no problem though and we arrived in Picton to bright sun and blue skies.

A fabulous drive across to Nelson. We arrived to find that the Crusaders rugby team had transferred their match against the Wharratahs (an Aussie team) to Nelson from Christchurch. It was an emotional event with the Canterbury colours of red and black being worn by everyone all day including all the shop displays. We managed to get tickets (£7.50 each) and watched a game better than I have seen for ages with a crowd full of families having a great time.

We spent the next day walking in the Abel Tasman national park, you are transferred to a start point by water taxi and then picked up later off another beach having walked through natural forest and bush.

We are now in Blenheim staying on a vineyard having a glass or two of wine. Cloudy Bay, Montana and about another 20 to visit.

love to all.