By 16.15 we were heading south towards Kaikora. We continued to drive alongside endless vineyards before nearing the coast where the landscape become more barren. We stopped for a break at Wharanui beach via a rough track which had black volcanic sand. As we continued we telephoned ahead and booked a site for the night and also for a whale watching trip the following morning which was our main reason for going to Kaikora. The road then followed the dramatic coas...

From Picton we headed south towards Blenheim where we needed to do. Supermarket shop but also to sample what some of the wineries in the area had to offer.We firstly went to Allan Scott winery whose wine we had enjoyed the previous evening in Wellington and bought a couple of bottles at less than a third of the price we had paid in the restaurant. We then visited Cloudy Bay, one of our favourite Sauvignon Blancs and sampled there latest vintage - just as good! Be...

An early start to get to ferry terminal to check in for The 09.00 crossing of the Cooks Strain between Wellington and Picton in the South Island. The wind had been very blustery and Sue in particular was not looking forward to the crossing however whilst it was still quite windy the larger ferry coped with it very well and we emerged on the South Island no worse for the crossing.

No driving today! After a pretty noisy night from traffic and the light from the overhead street light on our site on the waterfront it was nice not to have to think about driving. Driving the motorhome has been very easy in spite of the size and the high cab position and big windows gives really good views - we have both enjoyed the driving and taken turns so no one gets tired. After showers and breakfast (interesting going across site for a shower and men cross...

A fairly early start as need to cover a longer distance today. Travelled some 42 km along the side of Lake Taupo before stopping at the bottome end of the lake for coffee. The motor home certainly means you can be very flexible where you stop for refreshments and meals! It was then continuing south on Highway 1 through lots of rolling countryside with a different view around each corner. Sun shining but very windy and had to be careful with speed as vehicle get...