On the road again...

We have now affectionately renamed our vehicle the LC, (Loser Cruiser) thanks to my bro. That is the best name.

We started out on own journey tenting along. When we got to Ohakune, gateway Mt Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park, World Heritage Site and at the base of Tongariro, a big mountain in these parts, the air was crisp and cool. I didn't sleep much the first night - Paul says I am becoming a wimp - too long since we have had snow I guess. Mira wouldn't even believe the white on the mountain caps was in fact snow. The second night - I didn't sleep a wink, neither did Paul. While the children slept blissfully unaware, Paul and I had to endure gale force winds, which pushed out tent almost horizontal. A long, long night.

However, while the nights were eventful, the days were even more fun. We got some great hiking in. We did a fun tramp over streams and another along a railway trestle bridge. Cool!

Unpacking LC - can you see the mountain in the back?

Mt Ruapehu, already a blur. I liked this photo for the house in the foreground!

Intrepid trampers off on a hike in the cool mtn air.

Rewarded with great views.

On and on it goes.

Some scrambling and giggling required to complete the hike.

Kate is part Mountain goat and part monkey.

Horseshoe-shaped Hapuawhenua Viaduct on the Old Coach Road trail.

Hikers.

Careful.

We stopped en route to Wellington in Bull, NZ. This wee town used its creativity and ingenuity to create a tourist pull. Every shop has used Bull in its name somehow. Check out the signs.

Bull, NZ.

With rain pelting down, we cruised past Wellington and caught the early morning ferry for the South Island. We expected high seas but luck was with us and the sailing was unremarkable except for the spectacular views.

When internet will allow, I will post another blog soon. Ta Ta for now. s