Hello everyone,

Here we are at Queenstown in luxury apartments for three nights. Bliss! Had a good journey down from Franz Josef, stopping at various places, but it was over 400 k so it took about 6 hours.

As everyone says, Queenstown is a lovely place with loads to do. Our first visit was to the bungy jumping site, where we had an overview of the history of how it started, what they do, how they make the ropes, etc. etc. It was a fascinating place and we could have spent hours there just watching others. After that we moved on to Arrowtown which again is beautiful and we felt we were going back in time. It was originally the home of the Chinese gold prospectors and we think they had quite a hard time of it, looking at the huts they lived in, etc. However, being British, we ended up in a cafe having a cream tea! In the evening we went on a steamship across the lake which was very enjoyable but it started to pour with rain on the way back; something we're not used to!

This morning the weather was brighter and we had another thrill, this time on the Shotover Jet, doing plenty of 360 degree turns through canyons and over rapids. Then up on the gondola for a view over Queenstown, and Pat & Carole went on the luge. We are now going back to the apartments for a few drinks (again) and a bbq. Tomorrow we are off to Te Anau for a couple of days to do Milford Sound, which we are all looking forward to very much. Time is just flying by and before you can say Jack Robinson, we will be back home!

Mark: Thanks for your messages and for enquiring at the bank. Give David a nudge for messages. We are enjoying receiving them.

Sarah: Sorry, we forgot to wish Connor a happy birthday, but maybe it was just as well if he's been naughty. All part of growing up I suppose. Is Marty o.k. I have had one message from Mandy, saying she's all right but I wonder if she would be better in the cattery until we get back.

Thanks for your news Rachel. I bet you are glad it's half term. Nan, apparently, seems much better but will be in respite care for at least another week. Would like to phone her but there's no phone in her room, so I'm sending loads of postcards instead.

Linda: Thanks for your message, and thanks for going to see mum. Glad you won at darts.

Jessie: thanks for text. Glad to hear you're having a wonderful few days skiing. Are you thinking of trying the Remarkables next?

Think that's all for now. Will be in touch again soon.

Love from us all. xx