Named after the first European to discover New Zealand in 1642. He was looking for the rumoured great southern continent, sailed right past Australia, hit Tasmania (in case you hadn’t guessed!) and then the top part of South Island thinking it was the mainland.
After a drive across the national park, we hit the coast and walked a very small part of the coastal path, with a view in both directions from the headland.
It certainly gave us a taste of the park. It’s a very pretty area, so unspoilt it really needs some time hiking to appreciate.
Suprisingly hot weather, considering the forecast and amount of rain last night.
Today, we were due to head down the Buller Gorge, however plans change, and back south to Picton we head, over Takaka Hill with stunning views, through Nelson and a coffee stop that turned into lunch with a view of Able Tasman.
We took the scenic Queen Charlotte Drive back to Picton. Beautiful scenery, though the water has totally browned thanks to last night’s rain.
Little had we realised when we stayed in Picton that just beyond the ferry terminal that there was a huge logging port!
Finally, to Picton with fish and chips on the front.
Back to Oxleys for a little Paddy’s music!
Yes, Mark, it is too early to put the home hues to green. It is 8 in the morning!
Heather and Mark's travel blog 