South Island complete
Some doubling-back today. From Motueka we returned to through Richmond and Nelson, but this time stuck to the north coast, ending in Picton for tomorrow's ferry. As usual, a couple of stops along the way. We never got to try Havelock's green mussels (next time, perhaps), but can recommend Pelorus Bridge for chicken & camembert pies and (as pictured) ice cream.
So that completes the South Island. We've driven a fraction under 2,000 miles; stayed at 13 campsites; and after heavy editing, saved just 600 photos. Lost count of breathtaking views (and dolphins). Beamer: of the 30 South Island scenic drives listed in the book you gave us for Christmas, we managed 25.
It's been a remarkably quick adjustment to this lifestyle, in part because New Zealand makes it so easy for travellers. Aside from the time difference, though, a number of things about being in the 'wrong' hemisphere remain a bit strange, eg Autumn means March-April, and you look for a home with a nice north-facing garden.
And I've cooked more dinners than in a year at home. Admittedly that's not actually saying much, but it's something to build on when we get home. In the meantime - North Island here we come...
Glad the book of scenic drives was useful -
ReplyDeletesounds like you've had a great time!
A quite sensational goal from Hoolahan completed a fabulous first half performance last night against Southampton. Near us Delia and all her family celebrated the goal with wild abandon. In the Cathedral lounge at half time was we were excited, confident and optimistic with a 2-0 scoreline. As you know now, Southampton were a little stronger in the second half, had some luck and took advantage of some poor defending. For all of us the 2-2 draw felt like a defeat. On the bright side we played great football for two thirds of the game. Hoolahan's goal was quite, quite breathtaking and Dave was with us to share the evening. We are hoping for a brave performance on Friday evening against a resurgent Doncaster who won 1-0 away to Sheffield Utd last night. Never mind the danger!
Congratulations - and enjoy North Island as much as you have the South. You mention the upsidedown and backtofront aspects of life in the s hemisphere. Have you seen any of those world maps they do with NZ at the top and UK at the bottom? And why not? Why is NORTH always UP? Best wishes, Mike Williams
ReplyDeleteBarbara, Paul and I know someone in N Island very well indeed. She is Lynda Finn of Waitakere and her email is largelyhappy@gmail.com She has been with our Virtual U3A experiment for years and may well appreciate a message from you (tell her who you are). Only recently she told us about a local event that took place last Sunday in Auckland (http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=113562930446) All the best - Mike Williams
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