Driving to Hamner Springs

 We left Blenheim on a sunny but very cold morning heading for Hamner Springs. Part of the journey was along the coast where the Kaikoura earthquake had been. Mike explained how the landscape had changed with the uplift of the earth causing many more 'rock formations' to appear along the coastal edge.

 It appears that a lot of the marine life had also disappeared. With this in mind we pulled into a stopping point to see if there was any life on the rocks. To our immense surprise the were dozens and dozens of seal pups and the 'mums and dads'!

The pups were so funny, especially in the little pools, diving and leaping like little acrobats. They kept Mike and I amused for quite a while!

From the coast we turned inland with lovely views of the mountains.

Hamner Springs was rather reminiscent of Switzerland with the mountains in the background and chalet style houses. The town was awash with cherry blossom.

My nephew, who lives in Christchurch, drove up to see us which was lovely. 

After dropping our bags  in a really lovely apartment, I headed off for a massage while Mike and Joe went for  a walk.  My massage was wonderful - I recommend it! A short walk around the village was interesting - it had such a diversity of shops and eateries. 

The following day we took a walk through the forest around  Hamner. It was an interesting walk along the paths seeing the sculptures which had been place there- some quite humorous ones! It was amazing to see so many tall, straight trees.

 I had a bit of a nostalgic moment when we came across bluebells - the garden of my childhood was full of them in spring!

Following our walk we 'wallowed' in the waters of the hot springs. It was an overcast day but many people looked rather sunburnt as they left the pools. It wasn't  the heat of the water because Mike is know walking around with a very red face!!!

Tuesday saw us driving back to Picton. We travelled through the mountains, coast and vineyards on the way.

Even checked on the seals again!

We had a very early start as we caught the 7:45am ferry. The trip back was smooth and we were able to stay out on the deck for an hour or so as it was sunny and clear. Had to retreat inside as well sailed closer to the North Island!

It was a long drive back to Mike's - so many road works! 

Tomorrow, Friday, it's up to Auckland for the flight home.

Have had a great time with my little brother - so many laughs and reminiscing!