Headed down the west coast - spectacular scenery - mountains, rivers with crystal clear water, valleys,low-lying clouds etc on the way to Lake Mahinapua. Went on a nice walk cliff-top walk at Cape Foulwind-v similar to Newquay scenery -except one section of the rocks was home to a fur seal colony - loads of them!!! Stopped at Pancake Rocks and the Blow Holes at Punakaiki for lunch. Arrived mid-afternoon in Lake Mahinapua - v remote place - just our hostel (exclusive to Kiwi Experience people) and a lake and beach insight. Owner Les,80 yr old absolute character - massive meal before drinking and everyone got into their fancy dress costumes for the"P" themed party -I went as a pirate, Jon apoliceman and other mates as two peas in a pod (covered in green paint with loads of balloons round them),present, prostitutes - awesome night - loads of drinking for St Patricks day -green food colouring in beer jugs!!