Rabbits, Motueka and Abel Tasman 26-27 Feb

We made a quick getaway from our Hanmer Springs accommodation and soon settled in to another long drive. Don't get us wrong, we're thoroughly spoilt by the expansive changing vistas but the first hundred or so miles of this journey was mostly on quite windy, up and down roads and they do take their toll.

Some people we met at Milford Sound had recommended Rabbit Island as a place with great beaches so we had looked out our beach stuff and stopped their for a few hours, and what a great recommendation it was. Loads of room, free to park, uncrowded, great beach and a perfect place to chill for a while (in 30 degree warmth). Lovely.

After the disappointment of the Hanmer Springs place, imagine our joyful delight at arriving at our 'treat' accommodation just outside Motueka - a little cottage overlooking the Tasman Sea. It's a true home from home, really spacious and comfortable and the owners, Jim and Sue are lovely, interesting people. It's the best yet. Here are some photos, one of the cottage and the other of our view:


And the sun setting on Saturday

On Saturday we were treated to another warm summer's day and had booked a cruise up the coast by the Abel Tasman National Park, to then get dropped at a place called Apple Tree Bay and do a two-hour walk that Nicky should manage. The day was brilliant, our boat set off at 10:30 and the guide's commentary was that perfect balance of humour and information. We managed the walk to Anchorage Bay but we're a little disappointed that views of the coastline were very limited. Here's one of many pictures.