Weds 20th December
Woke to the sound of rain hammering on the roof- shame. It did dry up though and our drive NW to Nelson saw thin, low veils of mist skirting the forested mountainsides as the rain evaporated. Lots more windy roads- glad to arrive at Nelson, a large town where we had a good wander round, coffee and cakes. Everywhere feeling quite Christmassy which surprised us as we had all but forgotten the existence of Christmas- even the children! Visited a lovely book shop then jewellery studio for a bit of Christmas shopping.
Headed NW again towards the Abel Tasman national Park to overnight stop at Kaiteriteri. Perfect beaches, although the camp was huge and felt crowded- we have been spoilt by small quiet sites- Bought the kids a takeaway then abandoned them whilst rich and I ate at the nice restaurant! Another bottle of Kiwi Sauvignon down the hatch…