Hamner Springs was delightful--a place we would love to explore further, but there is more to experience in this great country! A short stop at the Waiau River bridge and on through sheep stations, dairy farms and on up over Lewis Pass with a short stop at Maruia hot springs a Japanese hot springs resort. Our trip continued through native beech forest, dropping through large tracts of managed pine forest and some clear cuts as forestry is a big export for Nz. On through more farms winding over switchback roads to Nelson. We got directions to Lorraine Hagen's home perched on a hillside above Nelson overlooking all of the bay and on to Golden Beach and beyond. We spent three nights with this wonderful woman who in her 70's, is a pastor at her church and frequently travels to India and Zimbabwe in ministry. Inspiring to hear her story of a life lived by faith. The next morning we drove to Kaiteriteri beach about an hour out of Nelson, traveling by apple orchards and vineyards. Our first dip in the Tasman Sea since 1981. We are astounded how the summer cottages we remember are now some pretty fancy retreats. This is "summer" holiday time and there are lots of people around--all friendly and always welcoming and wanting to have a bit of a chat.
After scoping out activities we scheduled a day tour via boat to Awaroa bay for kayaking the next day and a visit to the Abel Tasman track which we hiked many years ago.
 |
| Waiu River bridge |
 |
| Friendly Goodbye from the locals at Hamner Springs |
 |
| Maruia Hot Springs |
 |
| Lorraine's home in Moncreif Heights overlooking Nelson |
 |
| New Zealand welcome from Lorraine Hagen |
 |
| Nelson Farmer's Market |
 |
| Kaiteriteri Beach home |
Comments
Post a Comment