Another early start, was checked out of the hotel by 6am (including going back to remember to pick my charger up) brief walk through the cold morning mist to the bus stop, then onto the bus to the ferry port. 30 minutes later, I’m checked in and waiting. Was a bit apprehensive about what I was going to do, I had no firm plans, or any bookings but decided I’d go down which ever road looked most interesting.
The ferry trip was great, was nearly 4 hours long, but left Wellington harbour, which was grey and miserable, then hit the Cook Strait, which was a bit misty and had a slight swell, but nothing dramatic, then you hit the inlet towards Picton, and it’s like someone turned up the scenery to eleven. The weather cleared up and I could see what looked a little like the east coast of Scotland and what I imagine Canada would look like!
Once we docked and disembarked, I went to pick up my hire car, and will be driving this bad boy for the next few days.
It’s actually pretty good, it’s automatic which I’ve been ok with so far, and fairly economical (fuel is about half the cost of that of the UK here) so that helps. The road set off through wineries and vineyards, with mountains ahead, once I reached the mountains, it was a case of left for Christchurch and right for Greymouth. Obviously given the title, I went right and was treated to some amazing scenery, I don’t think the photos will do it any justice at all. It’s so quiet as well. If I’ve seen 20 cars from 3 miles out of the ferry terminal to 3 miles out of town, it’s probably a generous estimate!
Was originally planning to drive all the way to Fox Glacier today, but thought I’d get some rest and set off early tomorrow, then straight on to Queenstown for a few days! So far, I am far more impressed with what I’ve seen here than Wellington, not to say Wellington is disappointing, just the scenery is breath-taking!
Was also treated to this sunset
