Arrived in NZ several days ago after a great time in Oz. Mixed weather from wet tropics to sunny Brisbane. Visited an old (young) friend in Brisbane which was great after 4 years (it only seemed like a few months ago). We had a wonderful time in the Whitsunday islands, snorkelling twice and swimming in warm sea!! We flew to Sydney for a few days and thoroughly enjoyed city life for a brief spell. Very clean, great transport, wonderful harbour and great dining. We met friends for a meal at the top of Sydney tower which was quite an experience, especially for me with my dreadful head for heights.

Well, we're now in NZ in the South Island. Landed at Christchurch and making our way south and then north. Visited an interesting set of lakes (see above) and an even more interesting hydro-electric system!!! Even better was seeing some yellow-eyed penguins and blue penguins at Oamaru and today we saw sealions on the beach at Waipaku point.

Tomorrow off for a cruise in Milford Sound before making our way northwards towards the glaciers, then heading for the hot springs - Yippee!! more warm bathing.