Day 12 NZ - 12/1/2011

A nice quiet and secluded night at Pelorus was had and we were ready for our longer drive to Hanmer Springs. We decided not to head for the west coast but to return the way we had come and see the coast road between Picton and Kaikoura. Firstly the coast road between Havelock and Picton was SENSATIONAL to say the least. (photo) Every new corner brought another stunning small bay with beautiful views and crystal clear water. What a fantastic drive. This was the road we meant to take heading west but we realized we missed it as the turnoff was right next to the ferry landing.

After leaving Belnheim we were heading for the east coast. This bit was quite different from the rest of the landscape with long, flat, straight stretches. We then hit the east coast and it was a lovely drive and much more rugged scenery than before with beautiful views along the way (as we had come to expect). At one point before Kaikoura, we thought we saw some seals on the rocks so stopped to check it out. There were hundreds sunning themselves so we managed to get some close up photos while prepared a quick lunch. This is where the camper is fantastic. It was quite cool outside and we could just look out the windows. Getting up close to the seals was easy although we stayed far enough away just in case.

The weather was overcast and cool so we decided only to stop in Kaikoura just to do some quick food shopping and then head to Hanmer Springs as there was a bit to see there. The road to HS didn’t disappoint. Again every corner revealed another stunning view. It actually became a bit overwhelming. 

We took the recommendation of our book and went to the campsite past the town. Quiet, sheltered and not too far away.

We relaxed loading up photo’s, checking-mail and reading the paper, as well as catching up on all the news on the floods all from the comfort of the camper as it had started raining. The inside toilet even came in handy too, and we were thankful for upgrading to the slightly larger unit as we stayed inside for the rest of the evening.

The morning plan is to go to the springs from 10am, have some lunch and then head for Christchurch.