Queen Charlotte

Monday 20 April

Chris woke early on Saturday morning so headed off for the walk from the Portage to Anakiwa at 7.30 a.m. The sign at the beginning of the walk estimated it would take a generous 8 hours but I got a text from Chris about 10.30 to say he was half way and should be at the end by 12.40p.m. I had already left the Portage and took only 45 minutes to reach Anakiwa in the car so wondered what I would do to fill in time. Decided to try to find a coffee shop as there is nothing at Awakina except the run-down Outward Bound Education Centre. I ended up driving to Picton (about 35 minutes), got a croissant then headed back to meet Chris. After a short wait out he came looking exhilarated and thrilled he had achieved his goal! He said parts were a challenge, being very steep and high, so I think I made the right choice to flag this part of the track.

We then drove through to Picton and as we were way ahead of time, tried to get the earlier ferry back to Wellington but it was fully booked out. Had a lovely lunch at an outdoor cafe (the flounder was devine!) We still had 4 hours to wait and there isn't a lot to do in Picton so went to the RSA and spent a short while having fun on the pokies. We didn't win but didn't loose either!! We then just sat and watched the movements of people in Picton. Lots of tourists and the locals all stood out!

Finally we boarded the Bluebridge and it was great to leave 20 minutes early. Another calm, great crossing arriving in Wellington at 10.00p.m.

We had a lovely holiday and would certainly go back to the Portage for a weekend of relaxation.

Yesterday we spent just blobbing out and relaxing as Chris was pretty tired after the walk. Another week of holidays for me but Chris started back at work this morning. I am tutoring twice this week, Alessandra returns tomorrow and Sia arrives on Thursday so it will fill the week up quickly.

Have a great week and take care everyone!