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 lif...

It was a fine morning when we left Hamner Springs so decided to take the scenic route to Kaikoura, set on a peninsula on the east coast. And, at the risk of repeating ourselves yet again, it definitely was scenic - so many oohs and aahs as we drove through rolling mountains and along lush green valleys carved out by wide, wide rivers sparkling in the sun. But as we neared the coast the weather changed and became overcast with heavy, grey, rain filled-clouds. Even...

About an hour's drive here over the Lewis Pass took us through yet more scenic countryside.Although the mountains aren't quite so high as those further south they are still pretty striking with lush green valleys.The day we arrived was hot and very sunny so we decided to have a round of golf.First of all we found accommodation at Kakapo Lodge a youth hostel where we managed to get an en suite room with a microwave and fridge - and free internet! - very comfortabl...

This is a thermal springs resort and we've stopped for a day/night to take the waters. We had a really relaxing and enjoyable 24 hours here. It is a Japanese run resort centred on natural hot springs that bubble away near the river. We spent a few hours in the outdoor natural pools (albeit spending some time swatting away pesky sand flies) and then the Japanese baths that were inside. The waters are supposed to be good for arthritis and E seemed to benefit. We'd ...

The drive up the west coast from Punakaiki was every bit as spectacular as much of the rest of South Island - rather unexpectedly really given the write up in the guide book.Shortly after leaving Punakaiki we came across Irimahuwhero - a lookout point giving marvellous views both up and down the coastline. We took a short detour before Westport to see the lovely Tauranga Bay, with its seal colony, and Cape Foulwind.Westport too deserves a better write up - it's a...