Over Arthurs pass
Trip Start
Mar 18, 2007
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43
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Trip End
Mar 16, 2008
Greymouth,
South Island,
New Zealand
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Sorry it took a while to update this the computer at the last place was just a touch temperamental.
After bidding Phill farewell, we caught the ferry to the south island and enjoyed a calm crossing with some nice views (with a touch of drizzle). From here we caught the bus to Christchurch, which was really good as our driver gave us snippets of info the whole way and it felt almost like we were on a tour! The only downside was the scenery was so great along the Kaikora coast it was a shame we couldn't stop!
When we arrived in Christchurch we got picked up by Marie (Phill's cousin and also an ex member of Ben's group) and Chris, where we stayed the night at Marie's backpackers (as superior as Phill's backpackers plus extra crazy pets), thanks Marie
Bus ride to christchurch
!Marie dropped us off in the morning to pick up our hire car (but not before promising to join in the NZ mini golf tournament -leg 2 the south island...lonely planet says there is glow in the dark mini golf in Christchurch!).
We then picked up our little hire car from the super friendly people at Explore more, and hit the road!
First we headed for Arthurs pass, the drive up was very misty but as we climbed the first mountain (the little automatic gearbox going up and down!) we came into clear blue skies and stunning views and from here on in we were very glad we had got the car as we stopped for the 25th time to take yet another photo.
From here we headed to Greymouth, and the friendly hostel Nelsons which acted as a good base for the next few days exploring (see next blog).
Bye for now.
