You never know what the next day will bring! Barry's hip operation didn't happen, but we're grateful he has the choice to improve his health.
Time with friends
Trans-Alpine Kea Encounters
A long-held wish of Barry's was to travel across the alpine region of the South Island by train. Seeing keas close-up was Sandra's aim ...
A Christchurch Catch-Up With Unique Street Art
In March we re-visited Christchurch to spend time with Barry's daughter Jamie. There was an amazing street art exhibition at the museum ...
Our Failed Free Campervan Relocation Adventure
What a great find - a free camper van for ten days to adventure between Auckland and Christchurch. What could possibly go wrong? Well ...
May 2021 – The End Of Our South Island Adventures
Although it's almost a year since our final days in the South Island, we're keen to finish sharing our memorable adventures in words & images.
Reluctantly Leaving Liverpool
During our second week moored in Liverpool, we went to a family wedding in Devon, then explored more of the city together and with a friend.
Relishing Our Passage To Liverpool
After a delay of almost two years, due to the pandemic, we cruised into Liverpool's Albert Docks on the afternoon of 11th April 2022.
Joining The Dots In Arthurs Pass
Having travelled eastwards from the west coast to Arthur's Pass Village in February, we subsequently journeyed westwards with friends in May.
Settling Back In Blighty On Board NB Areandare
Leaving Gisborne on Sunday 1st August, we flew back to the UK on Thursday 5th August. It's an interesting time to be flying that's for sure!
Re-Visiting Christchurch and Banks Peninsula
From the 7th to 21st May, we hung around Christchurch with Jamie and visited a number of nearby attractions.
Fun With Friends and Wildlife In The Catlins
We managed to time our adventures to coincide with Rod and Tracy's Catlins long weekend over Easter. Our first three days were unforgettable.
Crossing The Cook Strait
We've both spent a bit of time in the South Island, separately and together. However, we've always wanted to explore more ...
A Fabulous East Coast Festive Season
It’s vastly different to the UK. The festive season here in New Zealand falls in the middle of summer. Is it better or worse?
Waitara To Taupo Via New Plymouth
Following our two-night stay at Whanganui, we meandered northwards to spend a couple of nights at Waitara Holiday Park with Marilyn and David.
Five Fun Days & Nights In Wellington
Our recent visit to Wellington was wonderful. Helped enormously by Tracy and Rod's convivial hosting, friends who used to live in Gisborne.
Amigos & Ancestors In Auckland
Continuing our journey down the east coast of Northland a couple of weeks ago. We spent a few days catching up with friends and visiting Auckland.
Walking And Reconnecting In Tūrunganui A Kiwa
I may have been spotted on one my many walks around Gisborne (Tūranganui a Kiwa), with a silly Cheshire-cat-like grin on my face - possibly simultaneously talking to myself. Next month will mark 19 years since I first set foot in this paradisical coastal city teetering on the edge of the world. I'm guessing those … Continue reading Walking And Reconnecting In Tūrunganui A Kiwa
Finally IN New Zealand
After an incredibly convoluted, complex and challenging journey to our 'second home country', finally, we really are back IN New Zealand.
Soaring Along And A Slight Flight Snag
I’d forgotten what a contrast cruising on rivers are to canals. Leaving the delights of Trent Lock on Thursday morning, we turned right ...
From Fradley To Trent Lock
We’re finally progressing towards our planned destination at a swift speed. I returned the hire car to Enterprise in Fazeley on Monday morning. Fortunately my elder sister Kath was able to collect me from there and get me back to the boat. Barry and Kim had by then moved to Alrewas! Great service from Enterprise … Continue reading From Fradley To Trent Lock