New Zealand - the 2024 Tour - Amberley, Kaikoura, Picton and Havelock Post Boat - 4th April to 10th April

 Heading North

From Geraldine we skirted around Christchurch heading for Amberley a small town to the North and our staging post on the way to Kaikoura. The Teviot View Motel was very comfortable and the hosts were friendly. We had a wander on the beach at the end of the road. Not a paddling day on Amberley Beach. The weather was still a bit wild. I ventured for a hair cut in the barber next to the Supermarket. I had to wait a short time but the other customers were friendly and one recommended we go to Ohau Point near Kaikoura to see the seals. Amberley has a very fine Pie Shop which of course we visited and picked up lunch.

Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a popular tourist destination. Despite being struck by a massive earthquake a few years ago, there are no obvious signs of damage.  The seabed was lifted up during the earthquake apparently. We chatted with a woman who lived through the frightening experience. Whales are a major attraction here, with numerous companies providing flights and boat trips to see these giants. We opted to stay on land and were very content with our trips to the seal colonies along the coast. Our stay was just for two nights. We watched a TV program later which explained that the seals were struggling and malnourished, and the reasons for this have not been found yet, very sad. Kaikora is a fine place for coastal walks and happily the sun came out again. Lots to see on our coastal walk.

Dozing in the sunshine

Our favourite seal

Pasture above Kaikoura

Kaikoura

Picton and Havelock

We had made a promise to ourselves about two months ago to revisit Havelock and take the Post Boat in Pelorus Sound. The Autumn weather was a worry, but fortunately, we had an ideal day. Our accommodation was in Picton, from where we set out on an early drive to Havelock. I was in charge of navigation and, unfortunately, led us astray. On arrival, a rather stern lady informed us that we were the last to check in. The car park operated a unique system where I had to write my registration details on an envelope, enclose  the fee, and post  it. Another piece of paper displaying the same information must be left on the car's dashboard. As usual, I found myself without a pen, prompting me to borrow one from the check-in lady. However, I didn't know our car's registration number. As I dashed out to get our license plate number, she needed her pen back, which didn't make me particularly popular. Hopefully I'm forgiven or forgotten.

The cruise was a highlight of our New Zealand adventure. Gliding over the tranquil blue waters to different communities around the Sound was incredibly enjoyable. For some, the Mail Boat's arrival seemed to be the highlight of their day, or even their week. Dogs even showed up to receive their treats from the Ferry Man. Our visit to Wilson Bay Farm, located at the midpoint, was fascinating. Trevor and Kelly, who manage the farm, were our hosts. Kelly provided us with a deep understanding of what living off-grid in New Zealand entails. Without access to mains water or power, they depend on a generator and a small hydro system. They offer guest accommodations in the summer, but it's clear that their lifestyle is far from easy. The sheep and wool market isn't what it used to be. However, their mussel beds likely generate some income. Wild pigs are a source of  protein. Trevor introduced us to a variety of fruit trees on the property. It seems that, as with many rural communities, some sense of community has diminished, with locals being replaced by holiday home visitors. It must have been a lovely place for their children to grow up. They were home schooled before heading to Nelson.

Wilsons Bay Farm

Mussell beds in the Sound

Trevor and Kelly wave us away from Wilsons Bay Farm

The Posties

Picton

It was our first time staying in the Picton area. Our motel, the Bay View on Waikawa Road, was delightful, situated right by the Sound. It was easy to picture kiwi guests arriving with boats in tow, ready to launch them into the water. Naturally, a three-night stay meant we had just two days for exploration. We dedicated one of those to our Post Boat experience. On our remaining day, we took a leisurely stroll around town and enjoyed an even more relaxed lunch at the Seabreeze Cafe, followed by a pleasant walk at Karaka Point.

Picton Harbour

Picton Harbour

Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Situated just outside Blenheim, the Aviation Heritage Centre boasts a fascinating collection of aircraft. It has two large exhibition hangars dedicated to World War I and World War II planes. The exhibits are displayed in an imaginative way with some aircraft being original and others being full-scale replicas. Its just along the road from our favourite pie shop Burleigh Gourmet Pies. An interesting Museum followed by a super pie - what's not to like.

Blenheim - Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

Heading South - destination Kaikoura

After a night stop in Kaikoura we opted to head to Hanmer Springs rather than Arthurs Pass. Seriously bad weather was forecast for the West Coast and that could have impacted our trip. It was probably a good decision as there were reports of severe flooding and road damage.