Wellington to Picton to Nelson

Today we made our way across to the South Island, by ferry which takes around 3 hours. We landed on the South Island at Picton, where we quickly collected our luggage and met the coach outside the terminal to continue on to Nelson.

Departing Picton we headed out via the scenic Malborough Valley with its vines and steep hillsides. Obviously, there was a brief stop overat a local winery for a little taste of boutique NZ wines, as well as olive oil and some local liquers. I didnt think much of the wines and as for the olive oil, absolutely horrible far too strong for my tastebuds!

After our little tasting session and lunch we travelled directly to Nelson, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park and the 'Centre of New Zealand'. Unfortunately due to the buses being so busy out of Nelson, I did not have time to stop-over for longer and visit the Abel Tasman. However, I know I will put it on my list for next time.

Instead, I took the 20 minute walk/hike up the hill to the marker for the centre of New Zealand - which did provide me with some beautiful views of Nelson and the surrounding area.

Interesting fact: Nelson is New Zealand's sunniest city - and it didn't disappoint, the afternoon was beautiful not a cloud in sight.