And so we've got to that time of the trip once more where we need to try and earn some money - accidents permitting of course! We've decided on Nelson as everybody says how nice it is there, plus it's meant to be the sunniest place in NZ (which is most definitely true!)

Things get off to a flying start with an amazing find in the way of a room. We just happened to park outside a house with a "room to rent" sign in the window. We check it out and agree to move in. After securing some serious bargains from the local recycle centre (a tv for $15 amongst other things) we're settled in to our new spacious abode. Next is a tip from a friend from Raglan, a restaurant called the Indian Cafe (which just happens to be the best curry we've had in NZ!) After securing myself a trial shift we're feeling good. Richard decides to head down a completely new path by signing up to prune vines. For the first time we find ourselves in the unusual position of me working nights and him days - very disorientating! Luckily it's not to last as after a week in the fields he decides that not only is it boring, but slave labour, and returns to the kitchen! I also get some additional day work in another cafe - order is once more restored!

We soon find ourselves working pretty much all day every day and are rather glad that we got all the touristy things done before we started work! Our days soon turn into weeks and soon it is time to once again cram everything back into the van. A very sunny time has been had by all, and it's been great getting the shorts and flip flops out after so long! But the north island is calling, so on we must go..........