We had a fabulous time in the South Island. The weather is slowly deteriorating and we must make a move back up towards the North Island… looking for some warmth. We still take our time, visiting Napier, again, and the Mercury Islands. Elephant island, in the Hauraki Gulf is a real gem, a natural auditorium, we do have a go at singing (very badly!).

South Island – March 21

North Island – March 21

The Marlborough sound is just beautiful. The Queen Charlotte, one of the great walk of New Zealand is accessible from some of the bays where we could anchor. So we made the most of this fantastic place. Not many people on the track, but we had a few social evening in the lodges lining the track. Napier’s Art Deco Festival was a real treat. A full week of parading in costume, us and a few others,  in this beautiful town, dancing the nights away.  We had a ball!

South Island – Feb 21

Waiting for the right weather window in Napier, Hawkes Bay was very enjoyable. So much to do and see.  Highlights… definitely the wineries!

We finally made it to the South Island, in time to walk the Abel Tasman Track. Camping! That was pretty special.

Hawkes Bay – Jan 21

South Island – Jan 21

Christmas is fast approaching and the weather has not really improved. We have had to shelter out of the worst of it along the way. On the bright side we have visited (and liked) places we never though we’d see. We had Christmas and New Year in Napier, perfect place to celebrate with a party and fireworks.

Tauranga – Dec 20

Gisborne – Dec 20

Napier – Dec 20

Back to our nomadic ways. With summer on its way we are beginning our migration south. The aim is to have Christmas in the South Island. Plenty of  opportunities to visit some  fabulous new places on  the way. We particularly enjoyed our walks in Great Barrier and the Coromandel.

Northlands – Nov 20

Great Barrier Island – Nov 20

Coromandel – Nov 20

The Bay off Islands is truly a special place, we never tire of it. There are so many islands, coves and bays to visit, we could probably stay here for many more months. Finally managed to sample the wine at the  Omata Vinyard, and very good it was too. The weather has not been brilliant unfortunately. We had to shelter in Opunga Cove for a few days. It did brighten up and we enjoyed Urupukapuka island. With loads of  walks and resident sheep, it is very scenic. Going back to Whangarei where we have a few things to do and then we will make our way south slowly.

New Zealand Bay of Islands – Nov 20

We have finally left the marina and made our way north from Whangarei. First stop Whangaruru, love this name, turns out it is a pretty spot too. we stayed for a few days exploring. Oke bay is spectacular with its tall cliffs surrounding us. We reached the Bay of Island and enjoyed Russell and Pahia again, before we settled for a few days in Opua.Some of our friends are still here so it is a very social time. Really enjoyed rafting up for an Halloween party…

New Zealand – Northland Coast – Oct 20

New Zealand –  Bay of Islands – Oct 20

We’ve not moved from the marina… Feels like the Hotel California, you can check out anytime but you can never leave. We have been busy. More house sitting  (really love these dogs). Visited Waipu (one of the earliest European settlement in NZ) and its cave, and a bit of sight seeing in Whangarei for a change rather than visiting the shops. Impressive falls too.

New Zealand – Marsden Cove – September 20

The time goes so fast. We are still at the marina, weather is still atrocious (glad we packed hot water bottles all those years ago, we finally have use for them!). Struck lucky again, house and dogs sitting for our neighbours in the marina.  Both dogs are lovely and the house is fabulous, as for the Ute (pick up truck), Ian loves it. Another lock down in the middle of the month means that moving about is possible but not advised.  Guess we’ll stay here for a while longer.

New Zealand – Marsden Cove – Aug 20

Finally back living on board, after 6 weeks. We’ll stay in the marina until the weather improves. It is nasty out there and hanging on the hook in a bay is not so attractive. At least in the marina we have plenty of opportunities to socialise and easy access to shore and facilities. We had some great walks, Waipu coastal pathway was a winner. But our local beaches are also very attractive. We’re still pottering on the boat. The job list never seem to diminish…

New Zealand – Marsden Cove – July 20