I write this sweltering in 26 degree heat! Not your average Christmas holiday, that's for sure! We've spent the last few days in Greytown, South Wairarapa, about an hour north of Wellington with my Dad and Sue. Apparently they've not had a sunny Christmas since they moved here over 3 years ago. Well that's changed!

It's been beautiful here. Greytown, population 2000, is extremely pretty and although a lot of people drive straight through on the way to Wellington without stopping, kiwis know better! There's an abundance of antique and gift shops, lots of mock Victorian housing and, as always scores highly on our list, lots of cafes.

We spent Christmas Day at a tiny place on the coast called Tora, where some of Dad and Sue's friends had a 'batch' (holiday home). So we sat on the verandah watching the sea, having a barbecue and drinking bubbly - hurrah! There were also some local seals to become acquainted with, so we did. Not your average Christmas Day by any means, but a satisfying alternative.

The next day was also spent by the sea, at the popular Castle Point, a beautiful beach with cliffs and good surf. Had a great time. On the 27th we went to Wellington and saw the world's largest squid (!) at the Te Papa museum, as well as getting the cable car up the hill for amazing views. We now also own a 'Learn Latin America Spanish' CD and book for some of our longer car journeys in South Island. We treated Dad and Sue to a listen on the way back to Greytown. I'm sure they enjoyed hearing us shout 'Hola' and 'Donde esta el bano por fabor?' (where is the bathroom) from the back seat. All the way home.

It's been a lovely few days and we've really enjoyed ourselves - it's been great to see a place through the eyes of locals instead of as tourists for a change. And of course really nice to catch up with family. Thank you very much if you're reading this! We're rested and ready for the adventures South Island has to bring now.....