Sunday 30th August 2015

A Little penguin tries out a Yellow-eyed penguin house for size!

Hello friends and family.

When you live in paradise, it is hard to get away for a break, but nevertheless, last Wednesday I set out for the northern part of South Island to have an adventure.

The view north from Moeraki as I left for my adventure.

I spent the first night with Jenny in Christchurch and then went on to Kaikoura. From there I spent 2 nights in Golden Bay and then beat the forecast rain and came back to Hanmer Springs, via the Nelson Lakes National Park, before heading home.

The view of central Christchurch and the alps from Graeme's balcony.

I had a lovely time and wish I would do these excursions more often. One of my goals was to ride my new electric bike and I love it. I have since ridden it to Moeraki and did not need to dismount and walk up a hill at all! 

The seal pup pool north of Kaikoura sans seal pups!

While I was away, 2.5mm of rain fell here which is great. The place is green again and some of the badly wind-burnt trees will get new leaves. The penguins are slowly beginning to take an interest in their nest boxes, but are still mostly spending the days fishing.

View of lake Rotorua in Nelson Lakes National park

The first blossoms are on the plum tree and the bees are very busy.

Have a great week!

Rosalie