As we drove into Wellington through the dock area (to book our ferry to the south island), immediate reaction was another city, but we have been pleasantly surprised.

Once again the weather making all the difference; raining and cold yesterday, sunny and chilly today. Wellington is the capital city, housing parliament building (the politicians' offices being called the 'Beehive' - hope it's appropriate) and very compact so easily explored on foot. We took the cable car up to see the Botanic Gardens and views over the harbour. The main streets seemed quiet today but most people in Oz and NZ escape the cities at the weekends. From what we saw it is a clean modern city with an abundance of coffee shops and eateries. There are also plenty of museums, cultural centres and art galleries, in common with all other cities we have been to, but they are not really our scene and we only do what is necessary.

The suburbs are quite spectacular with the houses being set on hill and mountain sides and all seeming to have their own view over one of the many bays or valleys. It is most unusual as everywhere seems to have an alpine setting yet the flora and fauna are very tropical. Places visited today include Titahi Bay where we walked around the coastal path and then we drove along the Lower and Upper Hutt River which is renowned for trout fishing. Ray wouldn't settle until he had a walk along the riverside to see if any trout were lerking. Alas, there were none to be seen so he put his tickling finger away.

We are staying about 12 miles north of Wellington in Porirua in a very comfortable motel - in fact we think it would suit us permanently. It is very modern and tastefully decorated, lounge, kitchen/diner, separate bedroom, huge bathroom with spa bath and it has a reasonable heater and electric blankets which are turned on and calling so that's all for now folks.

We are catching the 9.00 am ferry to the south island tomorrow so will be in touch.

Jen and Ray