Wine, Wind and Waves

Lake Taupo was stunning. From our campsite we had a view across the Lake with the snow-capped peaks in the background. Glorious weather, almost too hot! Luckily the lake was freezing cold, so cooling off was easy.

Heading off from Taupo, we headed east to Napier. An area famed for its wine, cheese, olives and fruit. Nikky took the wheel again and drove us all the way there! The drive was fun, but when we got there, it was a little disappointing. In terms of scenery, it doesn't come close to French vineyards and the world-famous Art Deco town didn't do much for us. But we still had a very nice evening camping by the beach and spent the following morning in town, browsing the boutiques and coffee shops.

In the meantime, the Kerridges (Seniors and Sister) had made their way down to Taupo and we were all itching to meet up! So we decided to make the journey back to the lake for a family reunion! Meeting up at on the shores of Taupo was a surreal feeling, but great fun and smiles all round! Best of all....we went out for our first restaurant meal in New Zealand! Quite a treat for our shrunken backpacker stomachs!

On the road the next day, Kerridges senior led the way, followed by the young ones in the Cruizer! Heading south towards Wellington, we took a few detours and stumbled across a factory called 'Kerridge'! What are the chances? Check out the pictures in the gallery!

That evening we had take-away pizzas while parked on the beach, watching the sunset, listening to the wind howl outside. The weather turned for the worse, with gale force winds and showers. But not enough to drown our spirits!

We are in Wellington now, having spent the day in the Te Papa museum and exploring New Zealand's capital city. Tonight is our last night on the North Island and hopefully the wind will ease for our ferry across to the South Island tomorrow! Watch this space!