Hey - just an update on the fantastic places in the South Island so far.

After Windy, Wet wellington we crossed on the ferry to Picton (gateway to South Island) Having had the wild weather, the crossing was a bit rough and there was quite a swell. I managed to sleep for pretty much the whole 3 hour crossing, waking just in time to see the stunning scenery as we got into Picton. Magic bus took us to Nelson where we stayed in amazing hostel. Initially put off by the 18-30's feel of the place, we soon realised that actually it was very relaxed. Whilst in Nelson we took a trip to the Abel Tasman National Park. A boat dropped us off and we had to walk 8 miles back - mission! We stopped for lunch on a gorgeous beach where Morwenna was persistantly attacked by a wasp after her sarnies! and then i continued walking - picking up the pace a bit as i didn't want to miss the bus. That evening i went to some friends for a lovely meal (you can't beat home cooked food!). We stayed on an extra night for Paddy's day celebs as Nelson seemed quite lively.

Greymouth - we stopped off here for a night to break the journey between Nelson and Franz Josef. It was a strange little place which had a very eery feel. The hostel we had booked in had run out of beds so we were put in a porter cabin outside. We wandered to the supermarket and had a real giggle in the Warehouse (where everyone gets a bargain!) as Wennie rode a tiny electric sit on truck (must see the video). I was laughing so much i was in tears but our fun was stopped by an in-store announcement! That really was the high light of Greymouth, although for Jon who wasn't in Warehouse with us - his was making me jump by scaring me whilst i was in our cabin on my own. (it had taken me enough courage to go out there by myself!!)

Franz Josef - We had 3 nights here and all of us did Glacier walks. One of the most amazing activities i have ever done. Spectacular scenery and a really invigorating trip. I opted for the 3/4 day walk. We walked across the valley - taking the 'more challenging' route as we were ahead of time where we had to climb ladders and walk underneath small waterfalls. We then put the spikes on our chunky boots (i really did feel like i was joining the army) before heading onto the ice. Steps had been carved in the ice to make walking easier but in some parts the ice was more natural. We went through a cave that was newly formed with the constantly changing ice which was so blue inside. After about 2.5 hours we had got over half way up the glacier and had to make our way back down. Nothing like the aches after glacier walking - but so worth it! The following day we had a lie in and as the weather was so poor stayed around the hostel watching films. Later in the day we chilled out in the spa pool before heading out for a couple of drinks.

Queenstown - The bus trip took the whole day yesterday and even though you sleep a lot, it really takes it out of you. Arrived about 6.30pm at our hostel and i was in bed by about 8.30!! Queenstown is known as 'Adventure capital of the world' as there are just so many extreme things to do in the area. We're staying here 4-5 nights as the town is really cool - layed back, lively and surrounded by beautiful mountains, lakes and at the moment blue sky! Have had a strole around the town this morning and there are many little cafes, bars, pubs and shops. The kind of town you can just peruse about in.