What a time we are having. After a day at the wineries in Marlborough we headed for the West Coast along the ocean. It is the most beautiful untamed coastline with beautiful visits from above and along the sea. Not suitable for swimming. The roads are normally two lanes with a passing lane every now and again which pass through all the small towns, so it isn't like our interstate where you see nothing. We drove all day stopping for looks and breaks along the way. Found another B&B, our choice of accommodation in Hokitika along the west coast. Another good evening with lots of chatting with other travelers, most of whom are European. We haven't encountered many Americans and were told they haven't been coming recently.
From that point we decided to head up to the Glaciers about a two hour's drive. It is amazing how one can be driving through tropical lush forests and then drop down to a totally different terrain. We stopped before we arrived at the Glacier town and hopped on a helicopter about as big as a bubble. It was phenomenaI; must admit it was a bit scarey but what an experience.
Because Queenstown was too far away, we decided we just couldn't do everything we wanted to do without driving all day so headed to Christchurch. Stopped at an overlook enoute and discovered a Kea bird that looks like a parrot. The like to eat the rubber off you car tires for some strange reason and peck around all the seals on your window. The thing was huge! Just so many interesting encounters!
We are at a delightful B&B in Christchurch; the fun continues.
How beautiful!! I wonder why American's have stopped going, maybe the expense?
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