NEW ZEALAND - South Island

The South Island - driving for miles and miles and seeing no one, surrounded by gorgeousness. On our way to Christchurch we hit the wine country (Blenheim) and Kaikora (in search of Whales). We arrived in Christchurch to stay with Alexa and Andy, we did a bit of farming (i.e. fencing) and lots of catching up. On arrival I tore up the drive way (the van's first of many towing incidents). After a great few days with the lads we headed across Arthur's Pass to the west coast. The Alps were stunning and the van loved the challenge of the ups and downs :) On the west coast we travelled north to the stunning pancake rocks and then down the coast to the sun trapped Hokitika for some chilling and then on to the glaciers Franz Josef and Fox. The west coast was really beautiful!

Next stop Wanaka/Lake Hawea to stay with Alexa and Andy and go on the job hunt! All went well and Rob is now a barman and I'm a sports massage therapist, success! Lots of nights by the fire, red wine and cranium - great craic!

Alexa, Rob and I then went south to Dunedin for the All Blacks game against France, it was amazing to get to a game and see the mighty blacks in action. We were amongst it in the rowdy terrace where they didn't get too involed unless they were doing well and threw bottles in disapproval. Cool to see the Haka and to see the French do really well, allez les bleus! A moustache fuelled night followed. The next day we went to the Otaga Peninsula in search of Penguins and Albatross', none were found but it was fun looking. Rob and I continued on down to the Catlins, great craic until we got snowed in (towing incident number 3) and had to abandon the trip and return to Dunedin early, good excuse to go back later though. The next night we met Seamus, arriving from intrepid Asian travels, he even has a tan much to my jealousy! Another cosy night in the van and on to Wanaka.........the south island is treating us very well so far!

Photos are here!