Hanmer Springs

Last stop before Christchurch we picked Hamner Springs for its geothermic pools for a little R+R before the trip home. The much stop on the way there was a highlight as they had a petting zoo outside with characterful rabbits, ducks, sheep and a gorgeous cat.

The hostel Hanmer backpackers were just as they advertised "small, warm, cozy and friendly". James immediately found their massive massage armchairs and enjoyed a 15 minute massage.

The next day we enjoyed the hot pools with many different types - hot, cold, sulphuric and a hydrotherapy pool. It was an echo of our day in Pucon running between the different types of pools on a cold NZ morning. Looking for more entertainment we didn't fancy a hike so spent time trying to beat each other at crazy golf (it was a draw!).

We ended the night in the local bar, trying for the last time our favourite beers of the NZ leg of the trip.

The next day we headed towards Christchurch and stopped at a magnificent winery on the way. We spent a good few happy hours trying the different wines (in much smaller measures than in Argentina!). We bough. beautiful smokey white to enjoy on our last night.Read more