December 31st - January 2nd

December 31st
Walked around Picton Foreshore, saw the ferry that we will be catching tomorrow. Most of the residents who live in remote inlets, use their boats to come and do their shopping here, as this is the closest town.
Really nice shore, and lots of coffee shops looking out into the harbor.

At midnight, Picton had a firework display at the foreshore, to bring in the new year.

Jan 1st
After a good nights sleep, we had breakfast in the garden of the hostel. Sun was shining, so it looks a good day to cross to the North Island. Packed and caught the ferry at 12.00. The crossing takes 3 1/2 hrs. While we were leaving, another ferry was loading up.
Heading out to the North Island.
Approaching Wellington.
Wellington is known as the windy city, as the wind comes in from Cook Strait and hits the city head on. This is the view from a look-out on Mt. Victoria. Then we visited the Te Papa museum along the waterfront. This is a fantastic 6 story museum, showing the history and culture of New Zealand. Very impressive,only wish we had more time there. As it was evening time, we headed out to a camp ground just outside of Wellington. Very windy again, but managed to get the tents up and have dinner. During the night the wind was do strong, the tent would cave in on one side, Derek had to get up twice to check the stakes! Never heard wind roaring like that before!
Dec 2nd,
Still very windy in the morning, but now it was starting to rain, so as soon as we got up, we packed away the tents, grabbed something to eat, and headed out to Hawkes Bay. We will be staying at Jennifers place ( our friend Colins sister in law). Arrived at this beautiful place, full of flowers, with gardens behind it. There are goats in the next field, and a waterfall with a swimming hole beyond that. She has an orchard, vegetable gardens, berry plants all in an immaculate setting. Enjoyed walking around and relaxing here.
Jennifers inquisitive neighbours!
Went for a walk in the afternoon with Colin, Elizabeth and Jennifer. These fields and mountains surround her property.
We're all looking forward to a good nights sleep and exploring Hawkes Bay tomorrow.