North to South

We had spent yesterday after dinner fighting to fit our belongings and purchases into our luggage so that we could return the hire car at Wellington. Eventually, once Pete decided to wear his boots, all was squeezed in.
After breakfast, our car arrived at the front of the hotel and we made the short trip to the ferry terminal. We saw a strange bird and a local informed us it was a spotted shag.

We boarded the ferry and found the Panorama lounge with its swivel chairs which had to be manipulated so that we could get through to sit on them. A remarkably smooth crossing in rather misty conditions in Cook Strait, but the weather improved once we reached Queen charlotte sound, where we saw salmon and mussel farms.
On arrival at Picton the Diamond Princess cruise ship was in the deep water berth.
We collected our luggage and were given a silver car this time.
Had a walk around Picton sea front and after a cuppa we set off on the wriggly road towards Havelock, stopping frequently to admire the view.

After about 30km, we saw Havelock bay and were soon into the township and again 100% successful in finding our accommodation.  We were greeted by Karen's husband, Alan, as she was bowling of course.
Went down into the town just in time to see all the shops close, so made do with a visit to the Mussel Pot, where we had steamed mussels, with sauces of blue cheese and wine (Alison) Chilli and Coriander (Pete) followed by home made gelato. So much for self catering!
Karen was pleased to see us and gave us our access code to enable us to blog away.
an early trip to the supermarket is needed tomorrow if we are to have any breakfast.