Cook Strait

Well my avid blog-readers I must tell you about my night in Wellington. After dinner I went to bed but about 1am got up to go to the bathroom and my bedroom started to shake! Yes, we had a mini earthquake that night, which was confirmed the next morning by a few others in the group. An experience that won't be forgotten in a hurry!

Anyway, we left that morning on the Interislander to cross the Cook Strait to the South Island.

The three hour journey is supposed to be one of the most scenic in the world,, cruising through the majestic Marlborough Sounds, a haven of sheltered inlets, coves and crystal clear waters. The whole place was very beautiful, endowed with natural beauty.

We were then in Marlborough's premier wine region, so were whisked off to lunch and wine-tasting at 

Forrest Estate Wines.......oh dear, more wine!!

Today we were taken on a trip to Abel Tasman National Park, sheltered and enjoying a mild climate, the coastline is characterised by near-shore islands, estuaries and golden sandy beaches. We cruised on the lovely waters for about 4hrs, saw a NZ fur sea colony and returned to Kalteriteri for the rest of the afternoon to relax on the beach and swim in the sea.

Here is a photo of my two travelling friends, Angie from Florida and Bridget from London.

Tomorrow is going to be a long day travelling as we make our way to Methven on the Canterbury Plains, somewhere near Christchurch I think. 500km journey....this is the change to our itinerary due to not being able to go to Kaikours because of the recent earthquake.

Think I am spending far too much time in the company of all these Americans.

Picking up the lingo.....all things are "cool" or "neat". Better lose that before I get home.

Until next time when I should be in Mount Cook......