BTDU

Finally, after being woken by another splendid dawn chorus from the native Tui, we soon heard the pitter patter of light rain…🌧️

Having reviewed the weather in the west we both felt ok about resuming Plan A, so decided to head to Hamner Springs

Before that though a second visit into Akaroa was part of the plan..

We wanted to find out more about it’s mixed history of being settled by the French, so the local museum it was…😉

Next on the agenda was a visit to The Giant’s House, home of the remarkably talented and imaginative Kiwi ceramicist Josie Martin; but first some examples of the varied architecture from the steep road on which she lives – and some in need of some tlc too..

…and after that steep climb we got our reward😍

…and, before reprising our “challenging” hairpin climbs out of Akaroa, we went into another work of art, which was the Anglican Church just down the street….

When travelling through South Island you are never far from The Southern Alps, which extend over c. 80% / 400 miles of its length 🏔️

So, shortly after seeing Christchurch in the rear view mirror, you are teased by the prospect of what lies ahead beyond the vineyards flourishing on the great glaciated plain..

…as you get closer the foothills fill your vista, set against the imposing “50 Shades of Grey” jagged alpine peaks and an ever-changing cloudscape…

…and further jaw-dropping views present themselves as you close in on Hamner Springs itself…

Arriving at our campsite at 6.30 pm, and still 29C, we ate al fresco after yet another day of stark contrasts and me declining to give Julie a lift using the local transport 😉😍🇳🇿