Another road trip north towards the ferry terminal at Picton once again aboard the ever reliable ‘Intercity coaches’ (and if you phone ahead you can arrange collection from close to the YHA in Kaikoura, which saves you a 2km trek with your backpack).
As we travel northwards the landscape of rugged snow capped mountains soon gives way to rolling limestone hills encrusted with layers of ruff grazing and scrub vegetation providing fodder for the hardy breeds of sheep in the region. Heading north both the road and rail links hug a narrow strip of land along the coastline leading to some wonderful views across boulder strewn bays with sparkling azure blue water to rocky jutting headlands. Some of the boulders even harbour fur seals basking in the morning sun :) The final leg sees us crossing the northern plains of the South island through Blenheim and its plethora of wineries each advertising a tour and tasting but after only 2 hours we come to the end of our journey at the drop off point, the harbour front in Picton - a quiet little town with a small group of shops and cafés surrounding the little fishing/ferry port, the YHA here is a small affair set back one street from the harbour front in a small house like building. Once inside you are welcomed into a cosy environment with snug sink into armchairs, carpeted floors and an antique Champion metal range. A relaxed stop before heading to Wellington…
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