A fantastic exciting day, next stage of our holiday. All 5 of us left Pegasus with 2 full cars ready for any weather that hit us and for our trips and cruises booked. We left in hot sun heading for Arthur's Pass through towns of Sheffield and Springfield. The journey through the Canterbury plains heading towards the mountain ranges filled us with excitement. We soon reached Castle Hill with a largish car park off S73. We walked up the short path to the large limestone boulders with their obscure shapes. Narnia scenes were filmed here. 
 
Heading back on the road having fun with the walkie talkies talking to each other in the cars our next stop was Arthur's Pass for lunch then onto Devils Punchbowl waterfalls. This was a spectacular waterfall with easy climb up wooden staircases. The lookout at the base of the waterfall gave a great view of the crashing water covering us with misty water. 
 
 The waterfall is 131 (430 ft) high. There is a large car park 500m outside Arthur's Pass village on the left. There is a small creek which you need to,navigate over so you may get wet feet if there has been a lot of rain! Or do some jumping! 

We then returned taking off our layers which were needed for the lower levels as the wind was a howling around the car park. 

We continued on to Otira Viaduct lookout with couple of glimpses of the Kia parrot. Seeing them fly was great as their red feathers against their green was smashing. The one 

Continuing on along the windy road with the train line every now and again showing itself we descended down into the valley passing Lake Bruner. We have left the route 73 heading inland to towards route 6 as we have decided to visit Pancake Rocks. We call our accommodation in Hokitika to alert our late arrival at 2020. 

Arriving on the coast again the humid heat of the sun tropical climate was weird. The mountains were covered with ferns, palms and flax. 

large car park at the rocks, toilets and cafe with visitors centre, The walk to the Pancake Rocks is clearly marked opposite the centre, with info boards along the way. Lots of places along the way to,take photos of the blow holes and rocks. They are def worth a visit. 

We head back alomg along the coast passing through .greymouth onto Hokitika. Check in at Annabelle Motel 2 roomed with full kitchen, large dining table and settees. We then head out to Stompers for a meal and drinks,