Arrived on the South Island

The sea journey over the Cook Straight went fine, no gale as it usually is. An interesting point: high tide at the east end is 5 hours later than the west side. How?. Drove through Richmond and Wakefield, felt like there was a wrong turn somewhere. Found a place in Motueka, you might not find it on the map, it's north , towards Golden Bay. The next day was very fine and no wind so E and K decided to try sea kayaking. After instructions they were issued with life jackets, a paddle each and a long skirt which fits round the kayak and is supposed to keep the sea out. (it doesn't). There were a few ripples on the bay but round the cliff a good breeze met them. E wanted to turn back but they pressed on, and arrived att split apple rock (pictures later) after 45 minutes. On the way back there was a gale blowing, and E resigned herself to her fate and thought of how easy it was in a canoe with someone you could work together with. She was a bit tight lipped about the whole thing but managed a big smile when she was on terra firma again in dry clothes. Then E and K lazed on the beach for about the first time all holiday. The day after was a hike along the Abel Tasman track. Easy walking, beautiful weather, fantastic views. Then on to Collingswood (which you won't find on the map), passing the longest windiest road (365 bends, about 900 m high) and the spring with the cleanest water in the worls. Lots of birds, lots of nature. Horse trecking was on the menu for today. That was wonderful, along the beach and up into the hills, on the most northern point of the south island. Picked up another hitchhiker on the way up. An American girl from Oregon. Working 4 hours a day in gardens and she gets bed and food and pocket money. Not a bad way to spend a year of your life.