HI Sorry I have not posted sooner. Internet in NZ is a real challenge - or non existant. Or shuts down when you don't want it to. Anyhow - interesting drive to Christchurch two days ago - I drove most of the way. Due to some map difficulties and address problems - it took a couple hours to get to our hotel. It was lovely - very much Edwardian - including no internet. Nice restaurant. Walked half an hour to Botanical gardens - I was NOT going to drive ! - gardens were lovely. Walked for several hours so felt I deserved a good meal and a few extra calories. W ehave starteda tradition of a sof wine in the evenings with a plate of cheese and crackers. lovely way to end the day. then on ... read more

The adventure has started. We have arrived safely in Queenstown NZ. Flights were good, very very tired and Norm's luggage is still in L.A. However We will manage. Had a great adventure to Milford Sound. Stunning scenery. Mountains and more mountains. Interesting roads. narrow, no shoulders and very twisty. Weather is fine - coolish sort of this morning - plus 12. Not cool for Canadians. No snow except on the mountain tops. saw a Kea - NZ Green parrots - very friendly and wild. Saw fur seals. Had an unbelievable flight back from Milford Sound - tiny plane, between and over and around the mountains. Kinda bumpy. I survived. Pictures hopefully up later tonight or tomorrow. Hopefully Norm's suitcase will arrive before we leave Queenstown. The adventure continues. I miss Canadian Hot chocolate. Here it is ... read more