1st April (Rest day)

When we woke up, the rains had dispersed and it was actually looking to be a decent day. Another classic example of the weather forecast being totally off. Thinking that it would rain all of today we had booked onto a bus to take us back to Motueka, felt slightly lazy! We checked out of the hostel slowly and made our way to the I-Site to lock our bags and bikes up ready for the bus later that afternoon, and off we went to explore Nelson.

First we climbed up to the ‘centre of New Zealand’ which was a short hike up switchback paths to an arched structure defining, we supposed, the centre of the country.

Then we went to the Suter Art Gallery. It was a free space and there was a good exhibition by Lisa Chandler; exploring historical protests and portraying them in a clash of colours. The pieces were really striking.

Afterwards we wandered through the city, strange architecture:

And visited the cathedral before having a cheeky pint in a Mac’s bar (local beer that we have been enjoying).

We returned to the I-site and whilst we were waiting we chatted with a lady who was waiting there for someone. Within about 2 minutes we had an invitation to stay with her in Rotorua! People are lovely. We got our bus, secured the bikes with bungee chords on the back, and speedily returned to Motueka. Quick pit stop at New World then off back to Top10.

The lady behind reception knew us by now, we chose a different pitch that was hopefully quieter than the previous one, and set up camp. We had to prepare and pack for tomorrow’s kayak adventure!