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North, South, East and West
  • Trevor and Robyn
  • Trevor and Robyn

North, South, East and West

Our 2025 holiday including visiting Nan and Lorraine, but time down south and the West coast Read more
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  • Trip start
    November 21, 2025
    Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler

    Switch Islands

    November 20 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌙 17 °C

    Not much to say really but got to get the footprints going. We were up early but didn't need to as they delayed our sailing by two hours.
    When we set sail, it was a lovely day in Wellington and then out to the strait which was just beautiful with a white cloud base along the tops of the Wellington coastline that at about half way through our sail turned into fog.
    I was sitting inside, too cold outside for me, Robyn came in and said we had sailed into fog and then we heard the foghorn. Surreal.
    Beautiful sail in clear blue skies in the sounds - just what the tourists love to see.
    Disembarked and stopped in town for lunch - a toastie and they were fantastic. Went for a walk around the inner harbour berths - it was sunny and warm, just what you need when on holiday.
    Then it was time to check into our house, which we found without too much trouble - we are in the Waikawa area. Had a short nap.
    Did some grocery shopping, had dinner and now resting.
    Tomorrow we a doing a morning trip out to Motuara Island - a 2025 Christmas present from the Plunkett Family. The forecast is great - looking forward to this. A great place to take a camera I think.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    1On the track at Motuara IslandRobyn at the top of the viewing towerA random goods drop off - what a fine place to live!Another randomFurneaux LodgeSome interesting pits at Karaka Point - pits for kia and accommodation

    Motuara Island and the Sounds

    November 21 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    Today was our trip out to Motuara Island and the sounds. It was an early start and we were going well, when Robyn read that we had to be at Beachcomber Cruises by 7:30. But we made it and I parked the car in the Council carpark – went and checked in at parking kiosk and had a wee problem with the device which proved costly when we later returned.
    We were on board and off shortly after 8:00 with about 12 or 14 passengers. It was such a beautiful morning out on the sounds, and we sat up on the top deck with the wind in our hair.
    Motuara Island is protected – it has history of clearing it of all its native bush, farmed and at one stage goats occupied it. It is now predator free with a lot of bird life, insects, kiwi etc. We all hiked up the trail to the top where there was a tower that we climbed via steps. Great view. We had one hour on the island and at 10:00 boarded another company boat for the return via visits to a number of coves making deliveries and dropping off suitcases at various places for people on the Queen Charlotte walks. Some of the accommodation was flash and at one place we dropped of 4 suitcases and a package of wine.
    First visit after Motuara was Ships Cove where we had 15 minutes to look around – we were pleased to see the monument and take in the history.
    We called into one house places, and the owners came out, some with dogs, to gather their goods. Stopped in Resolution Bay, Furneaux Lodge jetty and Punga Cove.
    This part of the day was just fantastic – we so enjoyed the two hours cruising in and out of bays. Sometimes the wind would get up, and the sea was pretty rough from the wind, especially 30 minutes out from home, but we just relaxed and soaked it all up. During this time there was mainly 4 of us on the top deck – one guy knew the area very well and had taken tours in the sounds – so we learned a lot as he relayed stories etc.
    Getting back on dry land at 12:30 we came back home to freshen up and then back into town for lunch at Gusto. Great place. We talk about the rest of the afternoon, and Robyn suggested that we take a drive on the road north from Waikawa Bay to Port Underwood and then back home via Blenheim. Robyn volunteered to drive and off we went – not log after Karaka Point there was a sign that said, “winding road 7km”. Not deterred she continued climbing and winding until we dropped down in to Oyster Bay were stopped briefly and then went to carry on where there was another sign that read “15km of gravel road” At that point 7km of winding road sounded better that 15km of gravel road. So, we headed back.
    We stopped off at Karaka Point and walked down to the beach past an ancient Maori site.
    Then home – met the owners of the place here and had a cup of tea and naps.
    It was a fantastic day!    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    1Cute bubble bee at the Picton lookout
    1Lunch at Te MahiaAll of thiswe met along the road

    The Long and Winding Road

    November 22 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 16 °C

    With thanks to Lennon and McCartney, it seems to be our theme song for Picton. But we did plan last night that we take a drive west from Picton around the bays as far as Linkwater and then up that road along the Pelorus/Kenepuru Sound to perhaps Portage.
    It was a super morning weather wise setting off at around 10. Bought petrol first, then out on to Queen Charlotte Drive – just a short distance up the road was a great look out of the harbour where we stopped for some photos. Back on the road and we wound around up and down, and the scenery was so good. We stopped (I think) at Ngakuta Bay – a chance to stretch our legs.
    Next stop was the turnoff at Linkwater – we were met here with several signs warning us that the road was under significant repairs and we could expect delays. Going on the suggested website told us that the road was open on the weekend. A group of bikers turned up too and they were weighting up whether to continue on; but we all agreed that it was worth a try. They headed off and we followed – didn’t see them again!
    So, it was an interesting drive - it wasn’t long until we hit road works – some completed and areas still under repair. There were so many places where the road had just dropped down a valley and there must have been mud and rock blocking roads after the rains. After over 20 minutes of winding up this road we came to a little resort/holiday camp that had a restaurant so in we went – the area Te Mahia and it was centred on a tiny bay with a magic view.
    We decided to have lunch there and sat with another couple from The Lakes District in the UK. They had a son living in Mayfield. They love NZ and own some accommodation nearby that they must use when in NZ, and their little runabout boat was moored at the wharf – just came over for coffee!
    We both had fish tacos and an enjoyable cup of coffee.
    After the drive in, it wasn’t hard to flag going on to Portage, so back down the road and on to Havelock. We had a walk around the marina there and saw what the rich and famous spend their money on. Drove through the town and found no reason to stop, so back on the road home via the SH to Marlborough North and back to Picton and home.
    We leave Picton tomorrow – our plan is to leave 7:30 ish – pick up strawberries and cherries at Marlborough and on to Christchurch. We hope to make it to CH CH by 1.00 pm and meet with Lorraine and her family for lunch. Then on to Ashburton to spend some time with Nan.
    The weather has been kind to us, and we have had 2 relaxing days here in Picton, we will be back for one night at the end of our holiday – no hurry.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    1
    1

    South to Family

    November 24 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 11 °C

    Another early start {Sunday} as travelling from Picton to CHCH for a lunch catchup with Lorraine & her family. Breakfasted, packed and off by 8am. Pretty good effort on our behalf.
    First stop for yummy cherries just outside Blenheim. Sunshine and fresh crisp cherries…. Must be summer. This is being written Monday and it’s not summer today.
    Lovely drive to Kaikoura {oh that coastline} for the loos and it had been raining but back into the sunshine for the rest of the drive. Trevor drove to Kaikoura and Robyn drove to Amberley. It would have been great to have a wander, but no.
    Arrived at Lorraine’s to be met by all her family. I think my kids are tall all of Jamies kids are TALL. Had a lovely lunch and much needed catchup outside. Lunch was bread, dukka and walnut butter – we brought the ground coffee from Bay Espresso.
    Then headed to Ashburton to Mum. McDonalds for tea… us oldies aren’t used to all the new-fangled ways of ordering {been a while since ae went there} did enjoy it all the same. Mum seems pretty good but not to steady on her feet and her eyesight has failed.
    Early night as had been another long day and then awake to a dismal cool day today. Supposed to get to 28 later in the week.
    A little disappointment not to take the opportunity to get a family photo at Lorraines.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler

    Nan's Place

    November 24 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 12 °C

    Today was a cooler day with a few light showers. It was a quiet day with not a lot planned and not a lot achieved.
    Trevor went downtown late in the morning to get a few groceries for lunch – and later in the day we both went grocery shopping for Nan and for us.
    After coffee I was at a bit of a loose end and so I grabbed my camera and tripod and went outside to take photos of the flowers in Nan’s garden.
    Tomorrow morning we plan to meet Judith and Eddie for coffee.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    The grumpy tree!

    Tuesday

    November 25 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    Fine and sunny today and we met Judith and Eddie for a morning coffee at cafe downtown. We had a really good catchup, so much so that we were still chatting as the cafe started to fill for lunch, so we decided to have lunch too.
    We got home in time for afternoon coffee :)
    We remembered that we had to wash the car - when we sailed the strait it was parked outside and had a fine coat of sea spray, and there was dust from those Marlborough roads.

    Trevor went for a walk, really a wander and explore, that included the Domain. I found the collection of Domain gardening artifacts - the collection is in the old aviary (I think). These would have been used by Nan and Grandi years ago, especially the wooden seed raising boxes that Nan would have used.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    1

    Boy its hot!

    November 26 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C

    The weather forecast was for a hot, hot day and so it was perfect for some manual work in the garden! Robyn volunteered me to trim up some of the trees and bushes in the garden. “What else would you do today?”

    So, Nan id’ed the trees that required some topping and trimming. She got the tools, and I covered up and liberally applied sunscreen.
    It took a little while to get into the swing of it and the eye for the trim shape.
    After lunch and a wee nap, and applying more sunscreen it was back into the trimming – this time near the backdoor and opening up the path to the clothesline.

    Robyn went to town and bought some clothes for Nan and helped with the removal of the clipping.

    Now the rest of the picture is this - the high today was a dry 30 degrees. And as I write this it is still extremely hot. Nan wore a jersey all day.
    Tomorrow will be the same.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    2

    Quiet, but hot and a swim

    November 27 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 21 °C

    They promised us another sweltering day, and after a cooler start the afternoon got hotter and hotter hitting 30 degrees (or more).

    I really wanted to get a swim in, it was coming up to 10 days since my last and so I went this morning, and it was so good. It does wonders to loosen up and great for your head.

    We had a quiet afternoon and after coffee went to do some grocer shopping mainly for Nan – got her some frozen meals as she has 5 days without “meals on wheels” and her weekly shopping.

    Tomorrow, we go further south, firstly a call in at Mary and Bob’s place – hoping they have coffee beans instore. Then on to Wanaka where we plan to spend three nights.

    The news says that Hastings had 32.1 degrees today, the hottest for 60 years.

    Oh, and we had green jelly for dessert - yum.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    3

    Mataraki Place

    November 28 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 11 °C

    We were up at 6:00am this morning – breakfast, coffee, showers, pack suitcases and the car. We were on the road heading south by 8:30 after saying farewell to Nan. She gave us some of her daffodil bulbs that we had seen in flower at an earlier stay, and a little maple seedling that we had spied. They will trip around with us.

    We had planned to catch up with Mary and Bob and it was so good to see them and to hear their news and to share ours. They are heading off to Europe and the UK in particular to see their family.

    We left them at about 11, got some petrol and began our journey inland.
    It was a great day for driving - good road, normal traffic and a sunny mild day. The temperatures rose to the early twenties as we got into the Mackenzie area.
    We stopped at the viewing area before Tekapo along with many tourists to see Mt Cook clear and cloudless. Lunch at Tekapo which was absolutely humming – parking was at a premium. Then the obligatory wander down to the lake with my camera.

    Back on the road and past Pukaki, were there was a huge crowd. The rest of the trip to Wanaka was without any problems except at the one way bridge near Luggart where we were first (or at the front) of the queue on the north side of the bridge and couldn’t figure why the light didn’t turn green for us and it wasn’t until the truck behind us tooted that we realised that we weren’t forward enough to trigger the system. By then there was quite a long queue behind us!

    We found our home for the next 3 days easily and it is just perfect. Luggage in and a coffee – my 4th for the day!!!!! Relaxed for a bit and debated what we would have for tea. We settled on pizza and went into town and it was super busy – we parked near the lake and checked out Francesca’s – full so went down to Bambini – pizza, and dessert.

    Tomorrow Robyn is planning on going to the market – hopefully the weather will hold.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    Here come the cowboys
    We think this was the hotelA mine shaft - too scary to get any closer23This is the shot I chose for 52 Frames - Architecture2The friendly horses

    Time Travel

    November 30 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    Yesterday (Saturday) was a pretty interesting day. There was talk of rain for us as we set off for town – Robyn had talk about going to the market for days and I dropped her off there and went back into town.

    My photo challenge for this week was Architecture, and I was hoping to randomly find a cob or stone house from the past. So I went into the Information Centre and asked, “do you know of any cob or stone miners houses around here? – I want to take some photos of them” The reply was I know of a place called Bendigo where there are miners’ cottages – it’s here on the map”.

    So, I went back into town and wandered about randomly talking photos and waiting for Robyn to finish at the market.
    When she returned she told me the market was petty good and full of good quality things. Could have spent quite a lot if we’d been local. Had a little spend on a couple of tops from a place that she follows on FB. She wasn’t there for very long!

    We decided to go and see what was there and decided to buy some lunch at the supermarket and set out for Bendigo where we turned up the road to the Bendigo Historical Reserve – driving past farmland and wineries then the road turned to metal and began to rise steeply. The road got narrow too and we followed the signs up, up, up until we saw our first stone house ruin.

    We stopped at a small carpark in a “town” called “Welshtown” and began our exploring. The sky was black and threatening, but it stayed fine. We ate our lunch and then set out exploring. Then as if in a cowboy movie horses rolled up "over the pass"
    We had such a great time – wandering along tracks, talking about how they might have lived, taking photos – It was pretty high up with a great view out over the Tarras area. It was quiet only a few other people than us. This was a real experience – so pleased we found it. After about 3 hours we headed for home.

    Coming down was tricky with a few cars coming up – some backing up and manoeuvring required. We saw a paddock of horses on the way up so stopped for photos on the way down – there would have been 15 or more and they were all sorts, Clydesdales, quarter horses, racehorses, pony’s and they were friendly – I talked to them, and they followed me along the road wanting pats – cool.
    Back home we stopped at the supermarket for dinner things.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    2

    Hawea

    November 30 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌧 13 °C

    Today was a quiet day for us. We decided to take a drive to Lake Hawea. It was a nice morning, still mild and light.
    The owner of our house came in for a chat – she was away in Dunedin when we arrived on Friday and got back this morning. Her cat joined in – Bertie was pleased to see her and us too! Climbed up on the couch and settled down on a cushion.

    We had a long chat to our host and then got some stuff together and set sail for Hawea – which you will know is only a short distance from Wanaka.
    The lake was looking magnificent. The only place open for food was a café so we found a seat and ordered scrambled eggs on sourdough and bacon. And a pretty good coffee too.

    Then we got into the car and travelled south around the lake stopping at a couple of spots – the last being at John’s Creek – down another dusty metal road. We left for home when we could see rain coming up the lake.
    Back home – a quick visit to see the house of the Late Pat and Keith Stuart – this was a feature home and section that we had visited and stayed at, while Pat and Keith were both alive. We were pleased to see that the gardens were being looked after.

    Tomorrow we will need to be off early for Franz Joseph glacier – it looks like there will be rain on our drive – how much? who knows? There has been a lot of roadworks recently due to some horrible weather this spring. So, we need to have time for stoppages and of course sightseeing.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    1Blue Pools1One of many waterfallsA lovely boulder stream2Got lucky that this tui was happy to feed close to us near a coastal lookout2This is in the Franz Joseph motel - you can see the cluttered kitchen bench and our coffee machine

    Westward

    December 1 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 8 °C

    Today we drove through the Haast Pass to Westland – but first we needed to get petrol and some groceries. We got the same big sandwiches from New World that we took to Welshtown – they are big Turkish bread full of meat and salad – they are yum and we ate todays in a park at Haast.

    But first we travelled with all the tourists westward – enjoying the wonderful scenery – stopping to take photos.
    The weather forecast was for some rain, but it was a great day – we stopped at Blue Pools and car park was full of cars, campervans and a small bus or two.
    We joined the tourist march to the pools and with all the rain the pools were running full. Took our photos and moved on. Stopped some more until we were “waterfalled out”. There was water falling everywhere.
    Lunch at Haast and then onwards to Franz Joseph. This part of the drive seemed longer than we expected.
    Stopped a couple of times – once to buy icecreams at a spot on the coast. We spent 7 hours on the road today.

    Checked into our motel – quite small, but ok. Went downtown for dinner and it started to rain. Went to a place that had Thai cuisine – Thai Robyn Beef salad and I had similar with calamari.
    It is raining properly now.

    Tomorrow, we go and see the Kotoku, so looking forward to this – we hope that its not too wet – but cloud and mist would be ok.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    2A couple of teenagers
    2This bird perched directly above the hide2The pairs had some active discussions about bird stuff1Lake Matheson1Lucky to get the glacier shotMt Cook from Lake Matheson

    Kotoku

    December 2 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌙 9 °C

    Today was one of those days – It look like shite and turned out like roses. Today was our visit to the Kotoku site – we woke around 6 to hear torrential rain outside, which then caused a short but strong discussion about going or not! In the end we agreed to give it a go.

    We had to meet at the Sanctuary Tours by 8:45 at Whataroa. By then the rain was easing and the sky was looking better.
    The tour bus took about 8 or 9 of us towards the coast where the DOC reserve was – close to Okarito. As we drove to the site we heard about the birds. The site is a DOC and the tour family collaboration – the birds come to the lagoon to breed – it is the only nesting site in NZ - they come here from all parts of NZ.

    This year there are 54 nests which is about normal, up a little on the last few years. The collaboration takes care of the track in, its security and pest control. The amazing thing is this reserve is virtually pest free now and lots of small lower plants are returning to the area.

    As we set out in the van the heavy rains returned and after 5 minutes of that it began to ease, and then the sky opened up, and the sun came out.

    We walked in through the beautiful bush with all the songbirds until we reached the hide and it was a real wow moment to see all these perfectly white birds perched in the trees in the sun. We could see some nests with baby birds, and some had teenagers! We had about 40 minutes there and cameras were clicking everywhere – and there were some mean cameras there.
    It sure was a great experience which we will never forget. Then we decided to drive back to Lake Matheson for lunch – the café was very busy - we sat outside and enjoyed lunch. Then we were off to walk around the lake. This lake is famous for its reflections – best in the morning especially when it is calm. We walked about 4.5km – the bush was so beautiful and there were some spectacular views.

    Back home – hopefully that’s the last drive on the winding road between Fox and Franz Joseph for me – I’ve done it 3 times.
    At home we decided we would get something for dinner at the supermarket and as we were getting in the car I noticed that the sky was clearing up towards the glacier – the sky had been cloudy all day – so we drove back to the river and up the valley to the lookout carpark and there was the Franz Joseph glacier in all its beauty.

    So, we feel happy with the day. Tomorrow its further north to Greymouth. We plan to have a feed of whitebait at Whataroa on the way.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    3Franz Joseph Glacier
    11Sunset tonightHere is an adult returning to the nest, being greeted, baby in a lower nest and a shag aboveNative orchid at the nesting site

    Glacier 2

    December 3 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 14 °C

    Today we left Franz Joseph and moved on to Greymouth, well Gladstone really, just a bit south.
    We woke this morning to the sound of helicopters passing overhead, and we did not comprehend what it obviously meant, until I went to pack the car 90 minutes later.
    The mountain was clear of cloud and they looked magnificent – so we headed out to the lookout point for the glacier and out came the camera. The opportunity was too good to miss so I set up the tripod to ensure sharpness. It was so special to see the sight.

    We got on the road and north of Whataroa there was some major road works, and the construction was at the stage when the final surface was being refined before seal. It was wet and each side took turns at being lead through the site.
    It wasn’t until we had a toilet stop at Ross that we saw that the car was covered in in white mud 4 sides up half of the car height. We decided that we needed a car wash.

    Onwards to Hokitika and as we drove into town there was the car wash! We parked up and went looking for lunch – Robyn had read about a sandwich bar, so we headed there. It was a very busy place – all the sandwiches made fresh – the bread was like a ciabatta – Trevor had corned beef with sauerkraut and salad – Robyn had smoked fish, cream cheese, capers and salad.
    Back in the car down to the garage for petrol and the wash – looking primo now. Onwards to Greymouth – we decided to pick up groceries at New World for the next few days. And turned around and headed back to Gladstone and our house for the next two nights. It’s called “The Loft”. Met the owner at the gate and he showed us around. He is probably a bit of a handy man – has a great vege garden. It’s a cute place on the first floor – quite large room compared to our wee room at Franz Joseph.

    Tomorrow not sure what we will do – might explore the Hokitika Gorge.
    I’ve had a chance to catch up on photos so will add some from previous days.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    1Great view of the river to the swing bridge
    21Swimming in the icy river!The vista from our loft towards the beach1Sandwich for lunch

    Hokitika

    December 4 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    There was no hurry this morning and we woke up to a cool morning – we had left two house windows open! Breakfast and coffee, showers etc and we were off to see the Hokitika Gorge. This is another beautiful area with the usual great features by DOC. Well kept trails, amazing swing bridges across the river in two places. The river water is milky blue, coming pretty much direct from the snow fields.\

    It was a drive of about 30 minutes, and the carpark was full of tourists – young and old, mainly foreigners. We set out and at a small lookout we talked to a man with an American accent – Robyn asked him where he was from and he said “Ross” – Robyn then asked him if he knew the principal of the Ross school “Jodi” and he did – Jodi is the daughter of Owen and Karen Teague, my cousin.

    The walk was 2km and we took it at a leisurely pace, stopping for photos. The temp was about 18 to 20 degrees – lovely. There was a spot were there was public access to the river, and we saw a man crouched down holding a cellphone, obviously videoing and adding a commentary and then we saw this guy swimming towards the camera. He stood up and was obviously frozen.
    We noted the reserve had fewer birds than we had seen further south.

    Coming back into Hokitika we returned to the sandwich café and ordered two different fillings. This place is so busy the wait is about 30 minutes, and nobody seem to worry about that.
    A little time wandering around the shops, including a visit to a Jade shop then New World for tonight’s dinner. Then back home for afternoon coffee and rest.
    Tomorrow we are off to Karamea – will probably have some whitebait in Greymouth and some side trips to Blackball and Dennisten. Tonight the weather looks a bit threatening, but no rain yet.
    Saturday and Sunday in Hastings temps are forecast as 31 & 32.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    Grey river mouth
    BlackballBlackball Hilton1Miners cottageMiners reading material2Best blow hole image4Yum yum

    Whitebait

    December 5 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 16 °C

    You know that you are on holiday when you don’t know what day it is! And that’s how it’s been and today was a good one.

    We left the Loft at 10:00 with the aim of heading to Cobden, just north of Greymouth for whitebait – driving through Cobden I could remember the old cottage houses from visits to my Uncle Bert and Aunty Thelma who lived there – I was fairly young them!! Our navigator directed me to a point at the mouth of the Grey river where the mobile van would be that served the best whitebait patties, but alas there was no sign of it – either he wasn’t open today or I was misdirected.
    But we got out of the car – the sea was wild, and the swell was running into the port on the river and we got to chat to a couple from Victoria.
    We decided to flag it and hopefully there would be some in Karamea.

    Not much further down the road we turned to go to Blackball – an old mining town with some history. Driving into the town was magic with all the old cottages with quirky fixtures and gardens.
    We bought some salami, which apparently they are famous for and went to an historical memorial beside the Blackball Hilton. Blackball is famous for the political events that took place during and after a miner’s strike. Some fundamental labour laws were first applied here and the beginning of socialism.

    Next stop was Punakaiki and there was a good crowd there. This place has changed a lot since the last time we were here. The reserve is easy to get through, and food facilities are good too. We stayed for lunch.
    It was a clear sunny day, so the pancake rocks were at there best and the blow holes had some action. I think we win the prize for the best blow holes photo!!
    Onwards to Westport where got petrol and bought a few supplies at New World. Had a little tiki tour around and decided Westport was a boring town so on to Karamea.

    The coast was pretty and often majestic with the sun around to the west and we found ourselves on a road climbing up and up – I wasn’t expecting that and soon we came to traffic lights and roadworks. We must have waited 20 minutes with a few cars gathering behinds us. When we finally got going, we saw that the works was a reseal job and it went on for kilometres.
    Lucky those residents. We have often remarked in the last week how the roads are wonderful on the west coast. Pot holes are rare – none for miles – it shows you how important it is to have firm base ground – on the coast the subbase would be rock.

    We arrived at Karamea – we have a small cabin behind the hotel - the hotel opened in 1876. The cabin id cosy and the bench is just big enough for our coffee machine.
    Had dinner tonight in outside in the evening sun with a few seagulls and we both had whitebait – yum yum and a glass of beer.
    Tomorrow we plan some walks and might check out a few caves.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    As good as a blow hole
    2Heaphy river111A little South Island RobinTree monsters

    A Good Turn

    December 6 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 16 °C

    Today we went through the routine that we have settled into on this tour. On the road by 10:00 and headed north along the coast up to the Heaphy River – the start/end of the Heaphy Track.
    The sea was wild with large strong waves and lots of white. We parked the car and walk over to the sand bar between the river mouth and the wild sea – it view was spectacular.

    We decided to do the Nikau Loop walk which was a short distance from the car park, but across the river via a very old swing bridge. The walk took about 20 minutes and was beautiful.
    Back to the car and a group of 4 or 5 women came out of the bush and began to celebrate and talked “we did it” – so we assume they had just finished the Heaphy.
    We started back down the road to our next explore – the Oparara Basin – which has huge rock arches and a cave – enroute he past a van heading to the Heaphy River with the name plastered on the exterior “Scrambled Legs” – we assumed that was the girl’s recovery van.

    When we reached the turnoff to the Oparara Basin there was a campervan on the corner and as we slowed to pass it two people waved us down. We stopped and they asked us if we were going to the Basin, they wondered if they could catch a ride – the track in was not suitable for campervans, so the signage said – they would not be covered for insurance. We thought about it and decided to help them out. We have to move all the stuff on our back seat and ram it into the boot. They were a young couple from Melbourne they were on holiday doing the South Island.

    And yes the track was rough, metal, full of corrugations, narrow, lots of sharp bends and up hill. It would have been a 30-minute drive in and we got to know them – we heard about where and what they had done, where and what we’d done.
    Parked up we decided take the walk to the Oparara Arch – these are massive cave like structures that have an opening at both ends – the arch is the upper part of the front opening. The photos we got did not do it justice.
    The bush was super, and the stream had the red stain from the forest leaves etc.
    We waited while the passengers did the other arch and we returned back down the road and dropped them off.

    We had planned to have lunch at the Arches but it had gone well past lunch, so looked for a place to stopped for lunch and in the end headed back to our cabin where we had our lunch with coffee – the weather had become a little damp and the car will need another wash!

    Tonight we enjoyed Blue Cod for dinner – very tasty and a beer.
    Tomorrow we head off to Nelson and Tahunanui    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    1The view from our lounge
    22Photo Challenge entry2

    Move East

    December 7 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌙 18 °C

    Today we moved east at the start of our homeward journey – turned on the car engine at exactly 10:00 – we have got the morning routine down to a pat.
    It was a lovely morning, and we worked our way through the winding road to Granity and on to Westport where we stopped for petrol.

    Then out on the highway to Nelson. It was an easy drive and the countryside gradually changed from full on bush to more farming and pine trees.

    We made a sudden decision to turn off to a reserve where the Old Ghost Road trail begins/ends and there was also an old cemetery that you could walk to – 320 metres. But the track was VERY precarious, and we slowly and carefully made our way until we came on a recent slip that involved a tree, roots first, and rubble. Robyn decided to go no further, and I made the tricky climb over it. The cemetery was “opened” in 1870 and was on a steep slope – there were about 8 fenced graves, some with tomb stones – if there were others I couldn’t see them.
    We made our way back just as carefully. Did I say that the track was made of loose metal about a metre wide and that the drop off was nearly vertical for 40 or 50 metres to the stream!

    Safely back on the road again we stopped at Murchison for lunch – hearty sandwiches, cake and coffee.

    The rest of the trip to our house was mostly driven by Robyn. Our place is lovely – great view from our lounge to the beach – see attached photo.

    After we settled in and had coffee, I went down on to the beach to take my 51 Frames photo - this weeks challenge "Shoot from the hip"

    For dinner we walked along the road and had pizza - it was ok, filled a gap and then walked back near the beach .

    Just made arrangements to meet the Sarah’s {Mary & Bobs daughter Sarah and her wife Sarah hence the Sarahs} tomorrow for a catch up and coffee.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    Early morning
    Late afternoon when the breeze got up

    Good and bad

    December 8 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    Our day was in two parts.

    A lovely day dawned with the view over the beach as good as ever. We had arranged yesterday to meet Sarah and Sarah over at Mapua for a chat and coffee. We got all the morning stuff done and arrived right on time at this cute little café and took a seat outside and chatted. It is a very community minded café with locals coming and going with their dogs – probably out for a walk.

    We had a great catch up with them and I think we solved all of the world’s problems. Suddenly it was 12 and we needed to move on – when we got a text from Jamie to say that Lorraine was back in hospital. We asked him to keep in touch, and we headed off to do some washing at a laundromat.

    At the laundromat we checked out the setup and got going. There were several combinations of a washing machine on the ground with a similar size dryer above each. The instructions said it was $6 a wash – coins only. So, Robyn sorted the washing into the machine, and I put 3 x$2 coins into the slot.
    “Someone” then pressed the start button and the dryer started to spin. Try as we may to cancel the dryer or start the washing machine, we could not get the washing machine going! – so we decided to feed the machine with another $6 worth of coins, but there was only $5 left in my wallet – so the other “someone” drove down to the dairy to get more coins.

    After that excitement we went into Mapua central and ordered lunch while the washing got done. We had a super lunch – Trevor had a salmon omelette with a small salad; Robyn had smashed avocado with herb salad and freshly made seed and nut slices.
    Robyn had a walk around the shops and went back to get out washing which was done and no one had stolen it!

    Our house is up a level on the main road between Tahunanui and the City – the road was so busy we had to drive very nearly in to Nelson city to turn around and then drive back to the gate entrance.

    We had just parked the car when we got a phone call from Nan with the bad news about Lorraine. It clearly shook Nan and of course it shocked us too – we got inside and began to think about what we should do.

    The short of it is we will leave tomorrow for Ashburton – to support Nan and help with whatever needs doing. We have cancelled everything for the next week – ferry, accommodation etc – and informed our family and friends.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler

    A Nice Sunset

    December 8 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    We've had a nice, not dramatic, sunset at our beach tonight. I was drawn to the four women who walked down together to sit on the log and watch the sun go down. Isn't that what its all about!

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler
    1

    86 Elizabeth Street

    December 11 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C

    We have settled into the life at 86 Elizabeth Street. We arrived late on Tuesday early evening after visiting Jamie and Andrew at Lorraine’s house. It was great to see them and enjoy hugs.

    They were still processing the events of hours ago and were tired. They wanted to talk and it was probably a help to them.

    We then travelled the last leg of our long day to Ashburton - but not after the driver made a wrong turn exiting on to the main highway and we found ourselves in Rolleston with no direct access back to the main road. We ended up travelling some 10 km on a parallel road before getting back on track.
    It was a tiring day and by ChatGPT’s reconning we travelled 497km - plus some in Rolleston.

    June was pleased to see us, but we could not assess her emotions.

    Yesterday was a quiet day, got in some stores and at 4:00 went to Judith's daughters for haircuts.

    So today it has been quiet too - went into town and Robyn had her glasses straightened at Specsavers, bought a pair of 4.0 magnification glasses for Nan and went to Tinwald for petrol at NPD.

    This afternoon we went for a walk down and through the domain. Put some stones on Grandi's plinth - the tree looks magnificent. And around to see all his and Nan's working tools in the old, refurbished bird aviary. See photos attached.
    There is a viewing for Lorraine tomorrow which we might attend - it will give us some time in Christchurch.    Read more

  • Trevor and RobynNorth, South, East and WestTraveler

    Lightning

    December 12 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌙 12 °C

    This post that covers last night and today. Last night, quite late (9:30) an electrical storm like no other hit Ashburton. Places south of here had a much earlier experience – Dunedin had huge hail stones.

    We were preparing for bed when the first thunder booms occurred, and they were accompanied by sheet lightning. I got up from the bed and stood for 20 minutes just watching the show.
    I got to the stage when I wondered if I could get a photo. Having not photographed lightning before I had no idea what settings to use. So, setting a high ISO and as fast speed as possible I set the camera on the tripod.
    And it was then that I realised a fast reaction trigger finger was required.
    In short there was very little fork lightning and what I saw was mostly horizontal – but mostly sheet lightning.

    However I have one average shot that I plan to use for this week’s challenge “Nature”

    Today Robyn and I drove through to Christchurch for Lorraine’s open casket. We got there at around 10:00. Andrew was doing the morning 2 hours and Jamie the afternoon. Along with Andrew was Hadley, Jasper, Ruby, Kat and a friend Zane.
    We thought presentation was so well done - for Lorraine’s family the best farewell – the last time they saw her would have been stressful.

    She looked so at peace dressed in familiar clothes. She is lying in a wool casket which would be in keeping with her beliefs and style. There was Jazz and Blues music playing quietly and we all talked about Lorraine and other stories – it was a special time.

    After about 90 minutes we left and suggested to Hadley and Andrew (who were the last to leave with us) to have lunch and Andrew remembered a sandwich café nearby so the four of us had freshly made sandwiches and coffee.
    After they left Robyn and I thought we would have a walk around the city – after some misstarts on directions, we went looking for a park and tried a car park building – we made our way up 3 stories and then saw a sign that said all above floors were reserved. So out we went.
    We headed in the direction of Hagley Park – no parking anywhere – so that was it “lets just go home” And we did.

    We may try the city thing again on Monday or Tuesday.    Read more

    Trip end
    December 19, 2025
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