Another 4 hour drive which took us along the west coast past 2 glaciers and Mount Cook. We didn't see any of it as the rain came down like stair rods all the way. It was fine the following morning but we had no time to return so we continued our journey north to Westport. On the way we stopped at Punakaiki which is famous for the pancake rocks, so called because they look like stacked up versions. They were formed 350 million years ago by a build up of marine fossils and subsequent erosion has exposed them in their current state. The incoming tide combined with a large swell from the Tasman Sea crates a spectacular sight as the sea explodes through the blowholes in the rock formation.... read more

Another 4 hour drive (everywhere of interest on the west coast is 4 hours away, even the next town). Spectacular scenery and 3 geographical areas on route, plains, subtropical and glacial. Nowhere in the world can offer this contrast in such a small area.... read more

A wonderful town located on the southern lake district of the south island. Cosmopolitan feel and restaurants to match. Stunning scenery with the lake surrounded by mountains and activities winter and summer taking place here. We visited a conservation project in a bird park and were privileged to see a breeding pair of kiwi. This is a flightless bird, endangered save for the breeding programme. They are nocturnal creatures so the enclosure is bathed in red light to create the impression of darkness to the bird and, when the tourists have departed, the keepers change the light to fluorescent to simulate daylight so the birds return to their burrows (they are a cross between bird and mammal). We were very lucky in that not only did we see the birds copulate but they also called out ... read more

Christchurch - a city with it's heart ripped out As the city needs tourists and the income generated we felt it necessary to visit. All city centre hotels are closed so we stayed in the suburbs but I walked out one evening and found it eerie how random buildings in one street were standing apparently unscathed and yet the neighbouring house was a heap of rubble. The city commercial area had an enterprising concept of brightly coloured portacabins converted to shops and cafes but as you can see from the photos not many people about. The road closures and transport infrastructure (no trams and limited bus access) meant that residents only enter by necessity. There is a blueprint for a new city but it will take years to build as there is a shortage of skilled ... read more

Travelled south to Kaikoura which is famed for marine life such as whales, dolphins, seals and many sea birds. Went seal watching on a very cold and windy day (see photos). Same cold and windy evening and having enjoyed a wonderful meal and local wines we decided to take a taxi back to the motel. What we failed to consider was that we were located in a rural town and everything closes at 9.30pm, even the local taxi firm. Great food and service beyond the norm at the White Morph restaurant as chef/owner Gary offered to drop us off at our motel. Where else in the world would you get this service.... read more