We drove north of Christchurch through the Waipara region recently getting known for their wines. Of course we stopped at a winery for a tasting. Delightful to chat with the owner and learn about the region.
Traveling with a baby who hates the car means lots of little stops along the way which has been fun for the kids. So many great picnic spots by lakes or the ocean. Often a bird reserve or a bit of Maori history to learn about on signs. The kids are looking more Kiwi everyday with their taonga necklaces, bathing suits and no shoes.
Kaikoura is a little coastal town with a population of seals nearby. We ate fabulous fish n chips at a pub Tim played a gig at with his sister Holly many years ago. We stayed at a bach (simple holiday house) on the beach and we went to the beach three times during our short time in town. The kids picked lemons from the yard too which they thought was funny.