The story continues...

So after the hill we started driving up the East coast. First top was the moeraki boulders. We really liked these! They're amazing almost spherical boulders sitting on the beach like God's giant marbles! The best thing is they're not behind some fence but we were able to scramble on top and jump from marble to marble!

Back in the car we decided to take one heck of a detour through a mountain plateau through Duntroon, Kurow, Omararma past lake Pukaki and stopping at Lake Tekapo to take in the view across the lake and enjoy a very welcome break from the fog which enshrouded us most of the way. It was the most idyllic view point with a cute little stone church of the good Shepherd, nestled between snowy mountain peaks which were reflected in a beautiful blue green lake. With the sun beaming down it felt we could stay there all day just soaking the peace and beauty in. I musn't forget to mention the statue of a dog also on the shore of the lake. Can't remember exactly why it was there, but there was a bronze dog none-the-less.

Back on the road we drove onto Christchurch for the night. We couldn't find a place that was more of a home from home with a river running through (just like Cambridge), punting, old religious buildings ... the lot! Anyway highlights for us were visiting the cathedral which had wonderful artwork. They were celebrating an anniversary and had art work that involved contributions from the whole community woven together. They also had photos showing some of the different activities that had gone on including an animal service with loads of pets and livestock in the church! Our other highlight from Christchurch was the Antartic centre where we got to ride in haagland (the vehicle they use for the icy terrain), and also experience blizzard conditions.

After Christchurch we continued North and stopped in Kaikora. This place is built up due to the whales that live in the surrounding waters. Previously this meant a booming whaling industry but now it is based on tourism. We took an amazing trip to see the whales which was really exciting! We'd head out on the water and they would stick a little funnel thing in the water to listen to the whales call. Then we'd all suddenly zoom off across the waves and find the amazing huge sperm whales which would spout up their water and bob around for a while before their tales would come gliding out of the water and then effortlessly disappear. Incredible! Kaikora is translated as 'eat crayfish' so for lunch we thought we better - yummy!

So that just about rounds up the South Isalnd.

Back on the North Island we visited Napier which was built during the Art Deco period after a big earthquake and so looks a bit like a film set. Really lovely place to wander round along the beach and soak it all in. We then met up with my sister and family again in Rotorua for a weekend. Many of you have probably heard of this place as it is a thermal wonderland! Steam coming up out of drains and bubbling water holes. We went to a cultural evening and Tim was chosen (out of the party of over 100 - how does he do it?!) to be our chief.

Anyway got to go to dinner! Bye!