Up early as needed to catch the 8.30am ferry to the South Island, found the early morning quite difficult after partying a little in Wellington the night before! Hadn't told Sue that there might be a bit of a breeze on the journey, but she soon found out; as soon as we left the ferry terminal there were two announcements first to advice against moving about the ferry and then to inform us that all food/drink outlets would be closed and that staff would be circulating with Ice and Sick bags……… happy holidays!!.

Despite the warnings, the journey was lovely albeit a little bit splashy. Great views as we left the North Island and then especially of the South Island as we entered the Marlborough sounds (thank you Matthew for your advice to be on deck whilst sailing in - as you said the views were amazing).

Arrived in Picton which was in the throes of a massive Bank Holiday triathlon. We eventually reached our hotel dragging our suitcases and trying to avoid triathletes as we weaved through the town.

Picton is a tiny seasidey ferry town at the end of a long inlet and once settled we went for a short (so we thought) 2 hour walk over the hills, ending in a quick beer back in town! The sun was shining so decided to sit on our balcony and catch up before going out for an early meal - great restaurant overlooking the marina. For a nightcap went into a local bar with England Vs NZ 7's final on, all went quiet for a while …that is until Sue voiced her opinions in England's favour - went down reasonable well in a predominantly Kiwi crowd!!.

Made a quick exit which was just as well as up early to leave for Kaikoura