Alpine Pacific Highway

Yesterday as our whale watching only lasted 40 mins instead of the 3 hour boat trip we had some time to drive the fantastic coast route to Blenhiem, no oranges here only vast valleys of grape vines in the sunniest part of NZ. Blenhiem is named after the Battle of Blenhiem when troops led by John Churchill bashed up the French.

We have now completed the Alpine Pacific Highway Triangle which takes you from Amberley through Waipara, Waikari, Hurunui and Culverden. Then spurred of to Hanmer Springs via the Waiau Pass then back to Rotherham, up to Waiau and Kaikoura back down the coast to Christchurch. (hope I've got that lot correct).

Our Kiwi cousins don't appear  bound by political correctness like Europeans

Today we have been on the tram to tour the city and a walk along the River Avon before meeting up with our friends for one last meal at The Old Vicarage in Halswell. We have had a short but great time in NZ we would of liked to stay longer but the week we spent recuperating in Sydney has been against us.

It has been excellent meeting up with our old buddy's and would love to visit again one day.

Jimmy Cook in Christchurch

Last supper with Pam, Keith, Sue & Andy

We are off to Melbourne on the redeye tomorrow, cant remember the last time we were up before 5am, must set the alarm. Hope the Socceroos make it to the final of the Asia Cup tonight.