We woke early and were greeted with a beautiful sunrise and peaceful views from our room. The Waikawa harbour just along from Picton was where we stayed in the motel Bay Vista- managed by really nice people, Kerry and John. They drove us into Picton in the morning and with newly found energy we embraced what Picton had on offer. After booking a hire car to pick up tomorrow for our onward journey south, we stumbled upon a fantastic museum telling the story of the ...

Long drive to Wellington with many roadworks and slow lorries through the gorges. Missed our check in for the 2.45 crossing by a mere 20 minutes but offered the freight crossing at 9pm which at least got us across to our accommodation. Contacted Kerry & John at Bay Vista motel who were so helpful and offered to pick us up at Picton when we arrived at around midnight- the alternative was to catch a ferry at 9am Tues which we were not keen on- so very grateful ...

An outing with Treza driving whilst Sean was at work. Napier market on Marine Parade was interesting- a mix between a car boot and market selling local produce. A beautiful sunny morning again so we ventured up steep roads with hairpin bends- well done driver- with rewarding views from Bluff Hill. Onward to Perfume Point for some chips and a beer. Next stop was the famous Arataki honey place to sample the many different honeys and buy some gifts. Back to meet Sea...

Blossom Festival- bad weather did not stop the locals enjoying their carnival day. However, we were less keen ton get blown away and waited for the sunshine which do not fail us for the afternoon. The water in the fountain had been dyed pink, the newly prepared square, Albert Square (named after the hotel that once stood there- not the British soap!) had a live band playing, and the atmosphere was relaxed and fun. We stopped in Bar 2013 opposite the square for a ...

A road trip today with Sean at the wheel, Jimmy 'Scot-nav', and the girls in the back with a flask of hot coffee and a packet of Tim-Tams (chocolate biscuits!). We took the Taihape Road from Napier to Taihape, through the Ruahani Range with views of the snow on the caps of Kawaka at 1724m. Passed through Sherenden- a small village. A few hailstones on the way. Sheep filled fields with lots of cute lambs frolicking. We could see Tongariro National Park in the d...