Inter Island Crossing + Nelson

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Saturday 23rd October:

Up this morning for our free brekkie (as negotiated by Dave at the Ibis). We then went to the internet cafe to book our crossing to Picton in the South Island. While there, Han decided to pursue the money-saving option by booking tonight's accommodation in Nelson in advance. Han spotted a "mystery hotel" option where you don't know what you're getting until you have booked, but it then only costs 45 pounds a night for both of us. Why not, eh? Upon confirmation of the hotel, we were awarded the Grand Mercure Nelson - voted the best hotel in Nelson and usually costing $300 a night. Yippee.

We boarded the ferry at about 2pm and the water was like a mill pond. We got a good view of Wellington and the Westpac stadium (where England Rugby League were battered the night before!) when leaving the North Island. The scenery upon entry to the South Island headland was stunning. We were really keen to try and see dolphins, but didn't really expect to. After an hour of scrutinising the water, Han popped to get coffee and returned 5 minutes later to be advised by Dave that he had just spotted dolphins/whales. Bum!! The South Island headland has loads of nestled houses that are only accessible by boat - amazing.

We arrived at Picton and drove straight to Nelson for the evening. The mystery hotel did not disappoint. We nipped across the road to the "Honest Lawyer" pub for a lovely bite to eat and glass of wine.

Not very exciting for you guys but fantastic scenery for us!

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Comments

[Bill and Jean]

hols
Welcome to the beautiful south.

[The Ancient One]

Sauvignon Blanc and Mom
Not much to comment on when you're surrounded by vineyards producing, in my humble opinion, the greatest affordable white wine in the world. New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is to die for and do not leave without an extensive tasting. This must be the first non-lunatic comment that I have made so far but be not affeared it won't last! There's probably still a residual memory of the BIG MAC revelation. Whilst sanity prevails I'll hand over the keyboard to mater. Mum here. About time I had some input. Lovely, lovely blogs. I'm so impressed with you both, Ooh! The south island. Can't wait to hear how you get on. Memories of Franz Josef very scary. Don'y do anything too fearsome - ah too late you already have.!! Love mum x x x

[mum]

piccies
can't believe the scenery that you are looking at. absolutely beautiful. keep 'em coming. you both look very good. not much back packing done yet though. good on yer mate!