Goodbye to the South

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So now I'm in Wellington. Sad to leave the SOuth, was fab. SInce I left Nelson I've had a lovely time relaxing in the Malborough SOunds. I stayed for 3 nights at a wonderful little 'eco-retreat' recommended by Debbie (thanks). Lochmara Lodge was so peaceful (besides the 9 person dorm...). I met a nice German couple, and we hung around. Went for a leisurely walk on Wednesday along the Queen Charlotte Track, and had great views of the SOunds. It rained for only the second time since I arrived - but it actually was a welcome relief after climbing the hill - and it was only a spot of drizzle. I had my meals cooked for me by the resident chef - the best food I've eaten, delicious. Yesterday I just chilled all day at the resort - lay in the hammocks, had a quick swim (a bit chilly, but very refreshing) had a massage, watched the stars from the spa.... Just what I needed.

This morning I took the boat back to Picton and went for a quick spot of swimming with dolphins (as you do..). They were great. I take back everything I've ever said about dolphins. We swam with 6 bottle noses. They were much bigger than the duskies I saw at Milford, and seemed curious to know what these stupid humans were doing splashing around in snorkels and flippers.

Then this afternoon I came across to the North island on the ferry (which I nearly missed thanks to the poor directions in the lonely planet - but it all turned out ok in the end!). Trying to get my head round city life again - cars, etc, but leaving in the morning - back to the 'bush'.

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Photos

Looking WInd Swept
on the queen charlotte track

Lochmara Lodge
a nice spot for relaxation

Dolphin
aren't they great