Left Wellington in sunshine although we knew it was "blowing" a bit in the sound. Very strong winds but the ship was stable, albeit it did most of the crossing at a 15 degree list due to the wind on the starbord side (that right hand to you land lubbers). "Captain Sue" stayed below for the 3 hour crossing but she was feeling fine until the 45 minute car journey from the ferry port. Hairpin bends and mountains all the way. She almost cancelled dinner but relented on my behalf at the last minute as we were staying in the mussell capital of the world. The ferry passage though the Cook sound is reputed to be one of the finest and most scenic crossing in the world and I can see why. Too many photos to ... read more

Gladstone winery was a must stay as it offered wine tasting, cellar door purchases and accommodation. What we had not factored was the Monday syndrome. Everywhere outside major towns and cities closes, including the winery restaurant. Even the local pub was to close at 5pm. Only one solution. Off I went to the nearest supermarket (20 minutes each way) to purchase two steaks. We put jacket potatoes in the oven and I cooked the steaks on the BBQ and together with a bottle of pinot noir we had a delightful supper. With over 100 nights of dinning out this trip it made a pleasant change to cook in. It won't become a habit as washing up is not much fun. Moved on to Martinborough, the wine capital of S.E. North Island. Population 1,500 but due to ... read more

A must visit is the thermal region of Wai-O-Tapu containing the Lady Knox geyser, mud pools and thermal springs. I was immediately suspicious when they advertised the geyser going off at 10.15am each day, only to have my suspicion confirmed when the guide admitted they induce the eruption by dousing it with a surfactant. It would however erupt spontainiously every 24-36 hours if left to it's own devices, although that would not be good for the tourists. We later walked through the park to view the thermal springs. This took us for 5 kilometers around footpaths and numerous steps but the views were spectacular and a photo opportunity around every corner. On our way back to Taupo where we stayed for 2 nights we called at the nearby Haka falls. Another great photo shot and this ... read more

Only a 40 minute drive to Hamilton where we stayed overnight. Visited the Hamilton gardens which contained sections sponsored by countries such as Japan, China, UK, USA, Italy and Maori. A beautiful garden and park to spend a few hours in and the weather was good. Went out in the evening to a restaurant serving a tasting menu and matched wines. Best food this trip so far and the wine wasn't to shabby either. All 6 of them (hic).... read more

Travelled east to west to visit the Kauri forest and see the Kauri museum. The largest living kauri tree is 1000 years old and measures 15 meters in cirumference. Kauri tress are still being discovered in swamps after being buried for 44,000 years. These trees were commonly felled over 100 years ago but conservationists stepped in 40 years ago and preserved the remaining forests. The Kauri museum is facinating and shows examples of both the timber and the gum which was tapped and later mined.... read more