So we hear you're getting a few specks of snow in the UK?!! Weather's gorgeous here but it could turn at any time so keep your fingers crossed for us. On the negative side (I'm expecting some sympathy here....) I'm suffering with hayfever in January!!! Also, Alex says "Will - man up. I've never heard so much whinging in all my life over a bit of a cold"!

After seeing the sights of Christchurch and meeting up with Paul for a brief catch-up on Wednesday, we went up to the summit of Mount Cavendish yesterday morning using the Christchurch gondala. We did a bit of mountain walking (I managed this in my flip flops - who needs walking boots?!)

We then inadvertently spent the afternoon on the road! We had planned to drive to a bay that the Rough Guide had raved about on the Banks Peninsula, but we had failed to realise quite how far it was (our fault) or that to get there, we would have to tackle a number of unsealed roads (the Rough Guide's fault!) Still, it was a great experience because the scenery was amazing and Alex was able to test his hill driving and turns in the road! We were also met at one point by a load of sheep that were blocking the road - we're not sure who was more confused - us or them!

We've now made it a few kilometres north of Christchurch and are enjoying amazing hospitality at Paul and Caroline's in Rangiora (Caroline's just cooked us the best fry-up ever!) - it's very much appreciated! Over a few beers last night, Paul helped us plan our route around the South Island - an excellent night's work perusing several maps and guides, alongside cousin Dan's extremely useful email (thanks Dan!).

We're heading to Hanmer Springs this afternoon and are intending to make use of their hot pools and spa. Apparently, one of the pools is 40-odd degrees (heated naturally)! We're staying the night in Hanmer, before heading to Kaikoura for a couple of nights (in preparation for the dolphin swim on Monday morning). Will try to take as many pics of that as poss!