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| Saturday 17th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 1 | We are on our way! | |
After what can only be described as a lousy week, for poor mum and all those who care for her, we are happy she is in good hands. The wonderful Ron & co are in full control of her recovery...We are on our way, cases labeled and handed in.
Christmas has come to Heathrow terminal 2. Santas little elf is off on his hols!
The essential pre flight beer is being consumed in "the pub" can't grumble.. Lovely talking on messenger to our superstars Mum , Hollie & Caroline we will miss you soooooooooo much xxx
Goodnight all we will be in Singapore when the fog lifts xxx
| Sunday 18th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 2 | Singapore Noodles! | |
12 hours in the air, bring us to the familiar sights and sounds of Singapores Changi airport.
The weekends must be an altogether quieter time to fly, the plane was only half full and the airport didn't seem so bustling.
We spent a few minutes browsing the shops, before freshening up for our onward flight.
A new experience for us, sitting " upstairs " on the plane, the seats seem smaller but we are in a row of just 2, ensuring no smelly strangers!
In a few hours we will arrive in Auckland ready for our adventures.
Hope everyone at home is doing ok, will try to speak tomorrow xx
| Monday 19th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 3 | Auckland at last.. | |
Debacle number 1, we arrive at the Snap car rental place, to find they have no SUV's available and " would we be ok with a Toyota Corolla".
After a terse phone call to the company in the UK, we booked through the UK, Ian decided to take the offered car, the alternatives would cause too much delay and trouble.
Finally on our way, Auckland looked an interesting city...to pass through : )
Toll roads in New Zealand, require payment via the internet within 5 days ( Martin ).
The Aloha resort Paihia offers the best showers since my bathroom 2 days ago! plus a view you won't get on my decking.. Debacle no2 a room door that wouldn't lock...Ian Houdini fixed it after a few choice words.
We are informed the pool is not heated, its a bit nippy so maybe not this evening..The weather is showery, however the sun came out for aa while, the moment our plane landed, so we could see what we might look forward to.
Greens "Thai & Indian" offers us dinner this evening, certainly busy..Debacle no3 we had tried their sister restaurant first which Ian had set his heart on, however they had a booking for 47 and sent us up the road to their 2nd location.
So far so good Ians Sheek Kebab gets a thumbs up, I'm trying something Thai and Ian is opting for the usual bum burner.
Hope everyone at home is ok, missing you all, specially my pixie xx
| Tuesday 20th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 4 | Paihia to Cape Reinga with Robin.. | |
Our coach picked us up as promised at 7 am for the tour.
First stop, Puketi Forest to see the awesome Kauri trees, famous for their great height and strength.
Sadly these trees were desimated in days gone by, for ship building and other industry.
90 mile beach ( actually 55-60 miles long ) a real New Zealand highway, subject to all the rules of their highway code.
A quick stop to dip a toe in the Tasman sea.
The weather continues to be cloudy, we follow the clouds but luckily miss most of the rain.
Lunch is served at the Ramada resort, an interesting " Fish & Chips " in a paper cone, fills a gap.
Our lunch stop is a pretty spot in a small cove.
On to the sand boarding, but first a drive through the fresh water streams surrounding the dunes.
Ian braves the slopes on his sand surf board, once again sand in every nook and cranny !
Most of the tour take to the slopes.
Cape Reinga, the most northerly point in New Zealand.. A special place to the Maori, the place where the Tasman & pacific meet.
The place where the tribes believe their dead depart this earth.
Ian took a stroll to the lighthouse.
Not too far from home..Just a little shy of 10,000 miles!
The showroom where you can buy bits and bobs crafted from the oldest workable, petrified swamp wood on earth.. Approximately 45-50 thousand years old.
Ice cream & hail stones.
Dinner in the Pizza shack, tick off the toppings and order at the bar.
New Zealand continues to amaze, a landmass similar to the UK with 3 million cattle, 10 million sheep & 4 million people..Its pretty idillic.
Goodnight all see you when the fog lifts..
| Wednesday 21st November 2018 | |||
| DAY 5 | To Coromandel in the rain..But they have a brewery | |
Whangarei falls..
A short stop off early in our rainy drive.
Ian made a soggy descent to the base of the falls.
I helped by waving from the top.
Today was mostly about driving, another view point where the rain kindly decided to stop, so we could snap the view.
Lunch at the ( misleadingly named ) top of dome cafe..a mere 1.5 hr hike from the actual top of the dome, a local view point.
We found a deserted beach, foot prints indicated many Marmits and their mums & dads had visited before us.
Again some sunshine before another downpour.
So we finally touch down in Hahai, near Cathedral cove, our studio accomodation is fresh and modern, doesn't hurt they have a micro brewery at the end of the drive, serving food and local brew.
Goodnight reader, sleep tight..We will!
xxx
| Thursday 22nd November 2018 | |||
| DAY 6 | Cathedral Cove from every angle! | |
Slightly late getting going, so a snack at the Cafe before our adventures.
A boat tour of the harbour.
After a lovely skype call to Mum & Ron...Our captain Tim took us around the islands.
The local rock & lava formations have carved these awesome caves.
some of them big enough to drive a boat through!
Shark fin rock, pushed up out of the ocean by the shifting plates on this natural fault line.
These Pied terns eat their own weight in fish each day, the protected marine area allows them access to the snappers, no longer fished in this bay.
Our view of Cathedral Cove via the ocean.
Hot water beach was not what we imagined, for $10 you hire a spade, dig a hole in the sand & bask in the thermally heated water that bubbles up!
The walk across the cliffs to Cathedral Cove, our next stop, Ian quickly revisited the scenario of a not very happy me, when faced with lots of uphill paths.
The cove was very busy with Kayakers and tourists, we were also lucky enough to arrive in a heavy downpour.
Back at base a laundry opportunity occured.
At last a shot of our (not) SUV!
Back to the Pour House brewery for dinner and more of their terrible beer!
Early start tomorrow ( due to an administrative error ) to visit the Hobbit film set.
Goodnight dear reader xxx
| Friday 23rd November 2018 | |||
| DAY 7 | Hobbiton. | |
Alarm set for 5am, we head to Mata Mata to pick up the tour bus to Hobbiton.
This is our guide Sarah.
The original movie set was constructed from polystyrene and after the movie was completed the hobbit homes were torn down.
Film fans still made pilgrimages to the region to see the land where the films were made.
The land is owned by the Alexander family, Peter Jackson the film director , stumbled on the region while flying a helecopter overhead and deemed it perfect for his Hobbit & Lord of the rings sets.
When the 2nd set of films were commissioned, Jackson decided to make the set permanant.
The Hobbit homes were constructed from Timber, stone & Slate..and built to local regulations.
The little doors are constructed to various scales, 60%, 90% to accomodate the size of the actors in any particular scene.
Welcome to Bag End the home of Bilbo Baggins.
The tree on top is entirely artificial, made from expanding foam & 22 thousand individually wired on leaves.
Sams house.
A view of the water mill, from the bridge & Green Dragon pub.
The set is maintained to an incredibly high standard ( Southsea model village could take a leaf! )
Mangapohue Natural bridge , a short stroll from the highway.
Piripiri caves our next stop, a bit steep for me thank you.
Finally the fabulous Marokopa Falls, well worth the steep walk.
Home at last, The Owls nest motel & its eatery next door..Its a bit chaotic here as 2 weddings are taking place tomorrow & the place is rammed.
Well goodnight lovely reader.
Lovely to speak earlier, everyone sounds wonderful..Miss you pixie xx
| Saturday 24th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 8 | Hairy feet! | |
( No Pies here officer! )
Warm pies from the local convenience store, make a delightful breakfast.
Nice and early we arrive at the Hairy Feet tour. Ginny the cat & Nellie dog welcome us : )
Susie the property owner, encouraged us all to grab some props and take a few fun snaps.
Susie loaded the intimate group of 6 into her van and sped off up the hill.
6 mins and 30 seconds of actual location film made it into the movie, the most actual aired footage from any location used in filming.
Susies speciality, is her book of actual film shots taken on her property..She then allows visitors to stand in the very spot the cast stood in.. Note the bird house.
Again study the background, and look at the next shot.
Meet happy hobbit Ian, unsheathing his weapon..Ooh err Mrs!
The amazingly enthusiastic Susie, she is clearly devoted to the property and very proud of her families involvement in the filming of the Hobbit an unexpected journey.
The New Zealand silver fern, emblem of New Zealand.
Ruakuri a natural cave system, created from limestone over millions of years.
The underground system consists of tunnels and chambers, re discovered in the 1790's.
Our guide " Pippin" took us through the geological time line.
The second part of this adventure was the awesome Glow worm caves.
The Glow worms have an 11 month life cycle, 9 months are spent in the pupae stage, where they hang about in these caves dangling their little spitty fishing wires, hoping to snag the odd bug.
The Reef Resort proves to be much more luxurious than we remember booking!
Boasting its own private spa pools & a whirlpool bath overlooking the lake!
We order the worlds smallest Popadoms at the Indian Affair restaurant.
Fortunately the remainder of the meal was not Hobbit sized.
Back to our luxury pad & a ginormous bathtub filled with hot bubbly water made my day.
Goodnight precious people at home..Thinking of Grandad Marriott tonight. xxxx
| Sunday 25th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 9 | Fat bottomed girls. | |
Cycling day..yay.
We pick up our bikes as the rain gives us a brief respite.
The owner gives us safety instructions and a route map.
Our bikes are "assisted" meaning that, a small motor helps you as you struggle to pedal uphill for example.
The assistance can be set at various levels, up to Turbo, not easy to stop when that bad boy is engaged!
1st stop Huka falls, the track is muddy and uneven as we venture further off road.
This is me auditioning for a part in "Call the midwife".
At one point we are diverted from the cycle track to avoid tree felling, onto an area of slimey concrete, resulting in a colourful bruised leg and a bit of road rash for me, no harm done to the bike you will be pleased to note.
We arrive back at base very wet & muddy, so back to the hotel for showers.
Next stop the thermal wonders of Wai-O-Tapu.
One of the most active areas in New Zealand.
The Thermal pools boast a variety of noxious substances bubbling away ""The devils Ink pots".
Our old friend Sulphur, perfumes this giant primrose coloured lake.
The vivid lime green of this pool, changes colour to reflect the colours of the sky.
The whole area is formed around a super volcano, deep underground.
Back at the Reef Lodge, we experience our own spa pool of heated water...Once again accompanied by driving rain.
Dinner in the No1 China Restaurant, most of the menu was unfamiliar, but we found a couple of dishes we fancied.
Goodnight dear reader, sleep well wherever you are.. xxx
| Monday 26th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 10 | Farewell North Island. | |
The rarest of things..Sunshine! Our view from our balcony has made an appearance.
A welcome morning swim in our thermally heated pool, the stand in hotel manager explained the heat exchange process to an enraptured Ian.
Today will be mostly about driving, mostly through rain.
And cloud..Here we are at the top of a hill amongst the Wind turbines..The little chap at the bottom is my driver.
We are now in Wellington to await our ferry crossing in the morning, this is the view from the 14th floor of the Rydges hotel.
Drinkies before dinner in their award winning Portlander Restaurant.
A sharing starter that would feed a family of four.
Followed by half a cow, served with awesome garlic mash & brocolli.
A large glass of red wine " Crimson " broke the bank, but ended another day in paradise.
Goodnight young reader. xxx
| Tuesday 27th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 11 | A ferry bumpy ride.. | |
After a lovely chat with Mum, we board the ferry Kaitaki ( or Kitcat as Ian calls it ) to the South Island.
The captain advised us all to take our sea sickness tablets, as the conditions were going to be less than favourable.
We had pre booked ourselves into the luxury lounge, no kiddies and limitless food & drink..guess who ate too much?
After a reasonably bumpy 3.5 hours the ferry approached the outlying islands of South Island.
After docking we were back on terra firma after a 30 min disembarcation.
The scenic highway did not disappoint, rolling waves & dramatic coastline.
Highway 1 should have displayed delay warnings, as we were stopped every few minutes by an annoyingly cheerful person with a stop/go sign, as roadworks continued throughout our journey, to Hanmer.
We checked into the Asure Hanmer Motel, lovely & clean with big beds, after a trudge through the rain, we found O'Flynns Irish pub on the main road.
After a hearty dinner and a couple of beers we will return to our beds.
Goodnight funky reader, more adventures tomorrow xxx
| Wednesday 28th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 12 | Hanmer to Franz Josef, and some sunshine for Caroline. | |
Much to our surprise, the sun managed to sneak its way past the clouds.
With a 5 hr plus journey we decided to take advantage of a few sunny stops.
A stroll along main street in Reefton , we took in some interesting shops in this quaint place.
A roadside ice cream stop, for our esteemed driver.
Franz Josef hosts the fabulous Franz Josef Glacier, clearly visible from the front porch of our tiny cottage.
The Hot pools are a major attraction, boasting 3 public pools each an oasis of heated water 36, 38 & 40 degrees respectively.
No cameras allowed : (
Our cottage, and a treat for me at the laundry.
The late afternoon sun, a welcome change from the rain.
Dinner at " King Tiger" a confusing menu of Thai , Indian & chinese food. Plus a screening of Bruce Lee's "Fists of Fury" while you eat.
The food by the way was awesome, might be there again tomorrow night!
Goodnight reader sleep well xx
| Thursday 29th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 13 | We started building an ark & had a drink with Kevin McLeod. | |
Our first stop of the day " Quad bikes Franz Josef" .
Our lovely guides, Sarah & Nevada showed us how to operate the quad bikes, & made us follow a couple of practice routes.
We dressed in waterproof suits and wellies, as the day warmd up we shed our groovy jackets.
Much of the journey was through the river beds, refilled by the overnight deluge that woke me up!
Part of the track took in Rain Forest, which is expanding thanks to the receding ice flow.
The area in this photo was all glacier 80 years age.
The glacier sparkled in the morning sunlight.
Our next stop, the Franz Josef Glacier..
We began the 90 minute return journey in lovely sunshine.
The clouds begin to roll in , masking the ice flow.
And the heavens open.
Fueling the waterfalls en route.
Even my umbrella failed to protect me, I made it most of the way & let Ian ( clad in a disposable poncho ) finish the route.
A final moody shot of the Ice flow, wreathed in cloud.
Our walk back see's the paths turn to streams.
We wandered round to the "Snakebite Brewery " for a pre dinner drink & Kevin McLeod ( off grand designs ) decided to drop in for a beer. We would have gone & sat with him but us celebs value our down time.
We ( Ian ) decide tonights venue would be the king Tiger again.....
Ian has a jalfrazi & loads of starters & most of my prawn crackers.. I order sweet & sour chicken & have to select a strength???
Hoping all will be edible & we get home without needing life jackets!
Goodnight lovely reader..See you when the fog lifts xxx
| Friday 30th November 2018 | |||
| DAY 14 | Meet the sandflies. | |
Farewell Franz Josef and your 10 cottages.
First stop, Fox Glacier view point, no access available to the actual glacier , due to a slip 3 months ago rendering it unsafe.
Welcome to Bruce Bay, ice cream & our first encounter with the pesky sand fly.
A very scenic " Knights bay".
We found some dunes at "Ship (t) Creek"..A number of walks were available, but our old buds the sand flies beat us to it.
Ian took some lovely photos from the observation tower, while I swatted flies.
Ians tower, not Ian up it.
Thunder Creek falls, More falls, complete with flies.
Time for a quick selfie before the flies swoop in.
Fantail Falls, one of our many falls stops today.
Folks pile the flat rocks in awesome piles, on the fallen tree.
Ian in front of Fantail falls.
A 25 min return stroll to "Blue Pools".
The wobbly bridges lead us over the landscape.
Lake Wanaka Lookout, beautifully scenic viewed from this great height.
Kindly stranger take a snap of us.
After a wonderful day weatherwise , the clouds roll in mean & moody.
Before we leave Wanaka, a final view point " The Neck".
After a sticky check in, this is our Lake view room, we are happy to have touched down in Queenstown.
So we are off, to the Pub on the Quay for a couple of pints before discovering dinner.
The Mandarin Chinese Restaurant, full of chinese folks, ( always a good sign ) we have ordered a mini banquet.
Then back to the Scenic Suites to apply calmine lotion to our bug bites.
Goodnight reader, thank you for following our adventures. xxx
| Saturday 1st December 2018 | |||
| DAY 15 | Jet boating and a scenic ride. | |
After the "meeting the coach" debacle, we went to the front , he went to the back, we went to the back, he'd been & gone from the front..We met our esteemed guide Dave .
Dave takes us on the perilous journey over the unsealed road, leading from the main highway to the Shotover river.
We arrive at the river for our Jetboat ride.
Our pilot Lincoln took us for a white knuckle trip up the river, spinning the boat in the shallow waterways, spraying us with cold water.
We were a small party of 6 on Daves bus, the other 4 being a charming family from singapore, including this lovely photo bomber and his wife, plus a couple of anorexic grown offspring.
A trip to the tour office in a vain attempt to sell us the USB of photos taken out on the river, then the funky museum.
The rusty riverbed artifacts left behind by the miners from 1880 to the 1980's are this museums stock in trade.
From interesting glassware, to shoes ( containing human footbones ) to the farming & mining tools from this bygone era.
These pipes originally straddled the river, allowing the miners to jet wash the soil & strain out the rich veins of Gold.
Dave invited his little team to pan for gold.
4th generation valley dweller "Winky " owner of the tour operation, assisted us in picking the tiny specks of gold from the silt.
I managed to mine 5 tiny specks of gold, Ian's Nugget about the size of a speck of dust seemed huge in comparison.
The return journey was equally scarey, we had to move aside to allow a series of cars & buses to pass.
Back in the valley the sun shines on us.
After leaving our tour we head off on our own sightseeing adventure.
Ian finds a beautiful lake with a mirrored finish.
A light lunch at the Bold Peak Restaurant in Glenorchy.
Yep, Glenorchy..This shed tells the story of the areas founding fathers , including Thomas Rees who laid claim to much of Queenstown in the 1880's.
Another " I'm Celebrity " bridge to our 80 minute walk.
The climax of our Lake Sylvan walk.
After a 5 minute breather we head back to the car and the inevitable sand flies.
Saturday night & we put on the glad rags, head into towm & after a pub beer, the gourmet Pizza restaurant takes our fancy.
Goodnight reader, trusting all is well with you xxx
| Sunday 2nd December 2018 | |||
| DAY 16 | Queenstown and a bonus jet boat ride! | |
How lovely, a leasurely start to our sunday and Brunch at the Pier pub.
We want to take the Gondolas up to the hilltop, we have been admiring from our balcony.
The brief trip to the summit gave great views of the surrounding area.
There are many view points, Paragliding & bungee jumping opportunites on the slopes.
Ian invested in a trip on the luge , dispite my best efforts only a shot of his back came out.
From our hotel, it is not obvious how big the lake is.
The clear skies allow these awesome vistas.
From our Gondola we witness a nutter, bungee jumping from an assigned platform.
Back in the town, Ian invests in some half hearted shopping, quickly becoming bored, looks like we are jet boating again.
The vast lake allows for much more speed & action.
Our pilot Daniel, made us feel like the first tour of the day with his enthusiasm.
Bravo Thunder Jet Boats..
Ian meets a (not too) distant relative in the Ballerat pub.
Finally a visit to the Taj Indian restaurant.. a cheese , garlic & chilli naan, blew my socks off. Don't think ian has given up yet!
Tomorrow we head towards Milford Sound & more adventure.
Goodnight reader, farewell xxx
| Monday 3rd December 2018 | |||
| DAY 17 | Off to Milford Sound ( Blog entry by Internet Satellite ). | |
We are Breakfast regulars at "Pier", we watched the steam ship "Earnslaw" set off again with a loud pull on the steam horn.
And say goodbye to the scenic suites hotel, we are on the road promptly at 11.
Throughout our journies we have seen an abundance of these wild Hollyhock type plants.. Small prize for whoever correctly identifies them.
Seeming to be just a short distance away, Mount Crosscut fascinated us, still lush with snow.
We have never seen such volume of snow melt cascading from the rocky slopes.
Passing through a raw cut 1200m tunnel, the other side revealed the largest flume of icy water we have ever seen, we marvelled the torrent runs night & day.
Milford sound a remote corner of New Zealand. Originally settled by Donald Sutherland in the 1880's ( Loved him in Kellys heros). He married a widow from Dunedin named Elizabeth, they opened a guest house, serving those who trekked through to region.Travellers remarked on the welcome Elizabeth gave. Donald died in 1919, Elizabeth lived with his corpse for 5 weeks before travellers came through and helped her lift him, in order to bury him.
A view of the Visiters centre and our destination tomorrow. We crossed back & stopped, for a great coffee & a chat with the information lady, she checked with the reservations dept for tomorrows cruise/nature adventure, only to tell us the times had changed and we would miss the boat by obeying our emails!
Another view of the magnificent flow.
A few drops of rain & a moody view of the sound.
We may have booked this eons ago but this lovely cabin sticks in the memory, what do you make of the view?
Our booking in the superb restaurant was a fab choice, Ians Beef cheek ( not curried ) & my lamb were to die for. I have a good bottle of Sauvignon Blanc to share with my man ( yes he is drinking it! ).
Goodnight bold reader. Lets see what tomorrow brings xx luv ya xx
| Tuesday 4th December 2018 | |||
| DAY 18 | Milford Sound Cruise & Discovery centre. | |
06.15 Ian is up with his annoying camera...
Last nights deluge of rain has refilled the temporary waterfalls.
We have trashed the room as usual. (picture courtesy of a local peeping tom).
Down to the visitors centre to pick up our cruise "The Jim Bowen" (Look what you could have won! ).
Milford sound boasts only 2 permanent sets of falls, the others appear after heavy rain..This is the Lady Bowen falls.
The cruise includes a close encounter with the 2nd set of permanent falls.
After an uninspiring start, the sun comes out!
Ian recieves what is known in the trade as a "Glacial Facial".
Rainbows glint around these stunning showers.
A waterfall at a natural fault line in the cliffs.
We meet some beautiful fur seals, taking advantage of a blustery rock to keep cool.
Once again we marvel at the sheer volume of water, released by the clouds overnight.
Next stop the Marine discovery centre.
Feeling a little like a school trip, our guide takes us on a geological journey through the sound..Which is not a "sound" as it was carved out by a glacier thousands of years ago, Sounds are carved out exclusively by rivers..
60 steps below the surface platform, we encounter the undersea life, 30 years of growth on these " trays" set out on the ocean show you, new growth of coral & sponges.
The original explorer who named Milford, named it Milford Haven after the Pembrokeshire town. Later the name was changed to Sound.
Welcome to the "Chasm" an amazing complex of underground stones, carved from the fast moving waters.
We would have loved to white water raft this section of the chasm.
Our return journey through the tunnel, the board displays the time till it is time to go through to the other side.
" Don't feed the Kia's".
Believe me I didn't, he tried to get in and eat me!
We stopped at several roadside viewing points.
Including "the Mirrored lakes" possibly more romantic in better weather.
So we are settled into our "Te Anau" hotel, laundry complete and a wander into town for dinner. Nope deffo not an Indian menu you can see....
Goodnight lovely reader xxx
| Wednesday 5th December 2018 | |||
| DAY 19 | Doubtful Sound. | |
The hotel pool, alledgedly heated to 24 degrees..Fffffreezy
An Ice cream break in Manapouri, before we pick up the first leg of our cruise.
Our deluxe picnic lunch is obtained from sandfly central, (the visitors centre) & we take a 50 minuite jaunt across lake Manapouri.
At the other side , after passing the Hydro electric power station, which we can thank for bringing modern civilzation the this remote area, we board a coach for a further hour.
The coach takes us over the mountain range, via the Wilmot pass.
Then onboard "The Navigator" our floating hotel.
We explore the many vantage points, the vessel is largely driven by its huge propeller, but has the advantage of sails, to aid stability.
The afternoon once again granted us some unexpected sunshine.
The nature officer "Hillary" offered many explanations as to the local birds and wildlife we might see.
A choice of Kayaking or a trip aboard the 2 small tenders was offered.
After the safety briefing, Ian was out on the water with guests & guides.
A gentle 45 minute paddle downstream, resulted in some wet trousers.
The weather was kind, the rain held off.
We watched as the tenders were winched aboard & secured, by a team consisting mostly of girls.
The day was punctuated by snacks & soup. Dinner was served at 7.30, delayed slightly by the spotting of a crested penguin on the bank, the food was fresh tasty & plentiful.
We shared our table with a Boston couple, Dale & his wife, they enjoyed our tales of adventures in the USA.
After dinner & wine, Hillary gave a presentation on the history of the region & Lt James cook who stumbled on the cove in 1769, He returned as Captain Cook later & continued mapping the region.
Time for bed in our tiny cabin, hoping our chinese neighbours shut up soon!
Love to all , goodnight reader..no internet, so there will no doubt be a delay in publishing xx
| Thursday 6th December 2018 | |||
| DAY 20 | Doubtful sound to Bluff. | |
The Captain started the engines around 6 am, followed by the raising of the anchor, a very loud grindy process.
After packing up our stuff, we head onto deck for some stunning dawn views.
A whole bunch of Crested Penguins came out to play, preening and frolicking in this pool.
A large pod of Dolphins was spotted near another cruise boat, we chased after them & they came to give us a delightful show.
The dolphins enjoyed playing in our bough waves & swimming alongside the ship for quite a while.
After our breakfast the vessel sailed part way back & into "crooked arm" a tributary of Doubtful sound, to the starboard side of secretary island.. Most folks snoozed on the return journey by coach & further boat.
Ian made a new friend at the Clifden Suspention bridge.
The original bridge was openedin 1899, it was only closed briefly in the early 2000's for repair, but took no cars etc after 1974, as it needed repair.
A new ugly concrete bridge runs parallel upstream.
Riverton was a snack stop, we parked near this funky old train & watched a younger version of Grandad Marriott, approach the beast with tape and a cardboard template of some sort.
After much faffing, the gent passed us, we couldn't resist asking, what he was doing?
Turns out the loco was built on 1902 & driven for 14 years by his grandfather,across their farm. He was planning to add LED lights & a smoke machine, he hopes to charge visitors " a couple of dollars " to make the loco make smoke.
Stirling point or the New Zealand equivalent of Landsend...Barring the Stuart Island this is the nearly most southerly point. 18,958 kms from London we are reliably informed by this sign.
This diddy lighthouse guards sailors from the treacherous rocks.
In the distance a full sized lighthouse, the 2nd tallest in New Zealand. Having had 35 feet of height, built in local stone, added in the 1900's.
Final stop Bluff Hill lookout, a collection of telephone towers & microwave dishes servicing the area. In the 1860's messages were sent by flags, the radio took over in 1934.
Then back to the "Foveaux Hotel"..as the only diners we enjoyed a filling dinner.
Back to our room for an early night, another busy day tomorrow folks..Sleep well happy reader xxx
| Friday 7th December 2018 | |||
| DAY 21 | Dunedin and a night in Larnoch Castle. | |
The view from last nights glorious accomodation, Nylon sheets tend to harbour short & curlies.
Florence hill lookout, our first stopping spot.
Purakaunui Falls a few minutes walk from the road.
The walkway was lined with beautiful new ferns, opening their fronds for the first time.
Surat Bay, home to the sea lions, not today I'm afraid.
The compacted sand was a joy to walk, The beach is clearly a favorite path for the local pony treckers.
A welcome lunch at "The point" in Kakapo.
Nugget point, home to another diminuative lighthouse.
I waited at the view point and enjoyed some local birdlife, while Ian scaled the hillside.
And who lives in a house named this?
A chance encounter with this 19th century cottage, Set by the local historical society in 1974!
Not a bad view from room 28 the lodge Larnach Castle.
The highlight of the day, a proper dinner in the castle..an excellent 3 courses from our host Colin & his team.
The 12 of us got on well, Garth & Virginia ( my tattoo'd buddy from oz ) Bob & Renee, from oz & Namibia, The Germans & the couple from Singapore & a pair from Salzberg ( Austria )
A slightly wobbly wander back from the castle, sorry the pic is blurry.
Goodnight our reader & well done mum at physio today..what a star xxx
| Saturday 8th December 2018 | |||
| DAY 22 | Larnoch Castle & not seeing an Albatross. | |
The day started with showers, fortunately our room was a stones throw from the breakfast restaurant, in the stables.
The stables boasted a wide range of continental buffet food and a fake horse.
The Kiwi breakfast, as seen here was not as good as our Queenstown fare.
We passed through the ornate gardens on our way to the castle tour, the gardens have historic status, containing a number of rare plants.
Funny to see a group of tourists studying " the dining room", where last nights dinner was served.
Ian in the drawing room, The house was originally built by an Austraian banker, William Larnoch, he married his first wife Eliza and was blessed with 6 children, sadly Eliza died suddenly aged 38, William married his wifes half sister Mary, soon after..She too died aged 38, once again leaving his younger children motherless.
The ornate ceilings are not painted, the plaster is tinted.
Finally William married his 3rd wife Constance, 20 years his junior. His grown up son Donald is said to have begun an affair with Constance, a few years later William took his own life using his pistol.
The tower offers a panoramic view of the grounds.
Goodbye Larnoch Castle & thanks for everything.
Next stop Pukikura, in search of Blue Penguins, unfortunately dusk is the best time to see them, not 11am, so we ventured to the view points & enjoyed watching the Gulls with their chicks.
Maureen struggled to place the roads and us in the right places, we went a little "off road" and found some interesting view points, typically at the ends of unsealed & scary roads.
A stop for a coffee at The Albatross viewing area, was equally fruitless, they must be hiding with the pengins, the exhibits in the visitors centre were interesting enough though.
We stopped at Sandymount recreational reserve & explorer Ian made for the lookout point, battling his way through the overgrown Gladdioli!
At the top he was not disappointed, another set of stunning views.
Our Portobello Motel cottage was bright & pretty, love the free laundry.
Our host informs us a burst water main may mean we lose water supply. We take an early bath & wander into the high street, seems everyone in the hospitality business is taking advantage by closing early. The Fish & chip shop remains unaffected..So back to our cabin for tea, mmm fish & chips & a bottle of Merlot, almost heaven.
Goodnight dear reader, see you soon xxx
| Sunday 9th December 2018 | |||
| DAY 23 | Lake Tekapo Springs. | |
And off we jolly well go to Lake Tekapo, snack stop at Lolas cafe a slice of bacon & egg pie.
Clyde power station & Dam, an impressive concrete structure.
Another view point with a memorial, celebrating the discovery of gold in the area now called Cromwell.
Summit look out...Not Summit I'd bother driving to again!
The views quickly perked up again & the sun peeping through the clouds, gives Mount Cook a magical look.
Another cracking view fromour room, directly over Lake Tekapo.
We strolled over the road to explore the lake front, The mysterious flowers turn out to be Lupins, they flower only or a couple of weeks each year & visitors come just to look at them, we think they smell like toilet cleaner.
Found this weirdo in the Korean restaurant.
Salmon Curry for me & a Masaman Chicken Curry for Ian, washed down with a couple of beers.
So back to our room for a snooze, before our 11.55 pick up for the Star Gazing tour.
We weren't expecting much as the day had been cloudy & more cloud cover forecast overnight. Upon arrival we had to get used to the Red Light, used to illuminate the building inside & out. Our Guide took us out onto the viewing area & the stars made a welcome appearance for us.
We learned about stars used for navigation, about the nebulars, clouds of dust & gas creating new stars. We saw Orions belt, Sirrius the brightest star & Beetleguise the dying red star. After our education, we all moved to the 38degree hot pools, we all floated on hammock type water floats & admired the clarity of the solar system.
Our bus brought us home at 2.30 and we hit the hay.
Goodnight dear reader, see you on the other side! xxx
| Monday 10th December 2018 | |||
| DAY 24 | Christchurch & our last full day. | |
After our buffet breakfast, we left Tekapo lakes in a blaze of sunshine, which quickly deteriorated into gloom & rain.
The big shout, in days gone by a ferryman could be summoned to see you safely across this stretch, by shouting!
We arrived at our last overnight stopping spot, The Maple at Harewood.
The very lovely landlady suggested we venture into the city centre & trot to the top of the newly opened 4 storey library, from there you have views over the entire metropolis.
8 years ago, Christchurch fell victim to our planets 3rd most expensive natural disaster.
An earthquake ripped throuth the city centre causing 50 Billion dollars worth of damage, for 2 years access to the area was only granted to the military & emergency services.
The Cathedral awaits it's turn, to be returned to it's former glory.
The rebuilding is now in full swing, with civic buildings now rebuilt and shops / bars / restaurants moving back in.
This beautiful 1924 tram and 2 others like it, take visitors on a guided tour of the centre.
Our guide Bas, narrowly avoids an accident by almost running a red light, tells us the many tales of history, heroism & recovery, from his antique cab.
See our car, parked beneath the city's newest piece of street art.
Another suggestion by our hostess, the tavern on Harewood..
Tuckered out from last nights star gazing & a busy day again today, we order an early dinner & sneak home to pack the cases.
Whilst we are excited to see our family, we are sad another epic adventure is drawing to a close.
Hope you've all enjoyed the ride. Goodnight faithful reader xxx
| Tuesday 11th December 2018 | |||
| DAY 25 | Homeward bound on Carolines Birthday. | |
So farewell, Maples at Harewood.
& The pool we didn't use, because it was too cold.
The Snap rentals office, just a few minutes away, was surprisingly easy & a charming chap, took us directly to the airport.
2944 miles of New Zealand road was covered by our economical Toyota Corolla.
Singapores Changi is the most luxurious airport you are ever likely to visit, with it's Koi pool & Orchid garden.
We have a 7.5 hour wait for our connecting flight, so off to Singapore food street...We've been before.
Pre load a card with a dollar value & visit the funny little stores, they cook the food while you wait.
It may win no masterchef prizes, but its tasty!
Was lovely to speak to all those who matter today, sending get well soon thoughts to Nanny France & a Hoooooge Happy Birthday hug to my Caroline xxxxxx
Goodnight dear reader & here endeth the latest adventure, thank you for sharing xx