What a change in the weather when we awoke the next morning - low cloud and dreich - but we knew that in NZ the weather can change quickly.However, our journey up the coast on what would have been a glorious drive was rather grey and dull, although there were occasional hints of a wonderful coastline.Even as we reached Blenheim and its extensive - and ever extending - vineyards the weather failed to improve.So we carried on driving and pretty soon the weather lifted and turned into a fine day. Soon we reached Havelock at the head of the Pelorus Sound - we were now on the north coast of South Island - and, liking the look of this small town, stopped and checked in to a motel.Havelock is the Green Lipped Mussel capital of the world so we knew what we'd be having for dinner that night.But beforehand, we made some onward plans for making the most of the Abel Tasman National Park and the Marlborough Sound. By the way, the mussels were delicious - M had hers with Thai green curry and coconut and E had his with coriander, ginger, red chilli and coconut.Being Europeans we added bread and a bowl of fries.Yummy!

For some time now we've been meaning to mention the strangeness of the autumn season here in NZ.As you know NZ has loads and loads and loads of sheep.Well, most of the sheep that we've seen all over the South Island have been sheared, something that would be done in the Spring in the UK.Also, we've seen plenty of evidence during our bird watching of birds mating - something else that doesn't happen in the northern hemisphere at the equivalent of this time of year.Finally, some trees that we've seen seem to be sprouting leaves and blossom - in autumn?Is this global warming or just evidence of what an upside down world it is?

Next stop Nelson.

E & M xxx