We left lush green North Island and windy Wellington under grey skies and had a fab, smooth crossing to Picton across the Cook Straight and into hot sunshine and dry, dry scenery. The 'Low Fire Risk' signs in NI became 'High Fire Risk' in SI. As we sailed we could see the 'Long White Cloud' firmly over North Island on the right and bright blue cloudless skies of South Island on the left. We looked forward with expectancy at the treasures to explore over the nex...

Woke to another very windy and rather grey day in the concrete but very convenient Gateway Motor Park. (Regular bus service right opposite the park, 5km to the ferry, no need to drive downtown, perfect!) We planned to get done what we could but any thought of a gentle stroll along the sea front was out of the question as howling winds made it difficult to stand up in parts. This meant we were left to walk the shop-lined streets - shame eh!! Stopped for the bes...

Before anyone comments - the photo is actually of Auckland Harbour not Wellington; we have yet to take a photo of Wellington and the blog doesn't allow us to post without a photo. A warm but cloudy start to the day in Stratford, and the often present stiff breeze returned. Tip: make sure you don't bring 'full' skirts, I've not yet been able to wear one of my only two as I'd spend all my time holding it down! Went to say farewell to Doreen but found she'd pop...

The morning started crisp and cold up in the mountains at Whakapapa Village, we had to put the gas burners on to warm us up as the air was decidedly frosty - just so our family and friends in the UK know that we are feeling your pain! (Lol as if...J) We decided to forgo another walk out into Tongagiro NP and headed straight out to Stratford, Midhurst and Mt Taranaki. Just as well we allowed lots of time for the drive, the road was mostly tarmac but also had pl...

From Rotorua we travelled on towards Waitomo, stopping overnight in a very nice motor home park with an owner who could give Norman Bates a run for his money. From Otorohanga we visited the famous glow worm caves, as well as the Ruakuri and Aranui caves. Pleased to say we had Maori guides at each location. It's good to see that lands - especially profitable ones - have been / are being returned to their rightful owners, the Maoris (albeit with some compromise...