Today we decided to go on a 20km plus cycle ride, I know!! Jan riding a bike for the second time this holiday. We cycled along the old railway track towards Clyde where a very large dam has been built, we then cycled back along side the river, this was quite undulating at times and quite steep but we made it ok. We met a Scots couple on the way who were travelling up country so they were able to give us a few hints and tips over a well earned cup of tea. Someth...

On Sunday January 4th we had booked to go on a Dolphin watching cruise which Adam and Laura had recommended. The boat left at 10.15 and within 20 minutes we were looking at beautiful Dolphins swimming along side and in front of the boat, such graceful creatures. We then headed off to watch Seals and Penguins, a fantastic way to spend a Sunday morning. At lunchtime we motored towards Fairlie arriving late afternoon, the scenery on route was absolutely stunning. ...

This morning we collected our camper van and initially headed in to Christchurch City centre. After four years it is still amazing to see part of the city reduced to rubble. The rebuilding program is well under way and it hopefully won't be to long before it is business as usual. We then drove along highway 75 to Akaroa some 75km away, the first view of the town as you descend off the mountain is stunning. The picture was taken from our camper pitch, superb!!

Friday 2nd January was a big occasion for us as flew in to New Zealand. So many of our family and friends have told us how wonderful NZ is and now we are here to experience it for ourselves. A great flight with China Airlines. An early night at an airport hotel and then we pick up our camper van up first thing in the morning. We can't wait for the fun to start.

January 1st started late, we managed to surface about 10am after quite a night! A quick phone and we were making our way to Darling Harbour to meet our friend Jenn. Today was really hot 30 plus degrees. We had a great catch up over lunch in one of our favourite places in the world. During the afternoon we made our way over the bay to Manly, it has a great beach with huge waves crashing in. Another brilliant day and a great start to 2015.