Having mainly packed up last night it didn’t take us long to leave the hotel this morning and we were on the road just after 8.30.

First stop was the Park Island Cemetery to see the memorial for the earthquake victims. This is NZ’s largest mass grave.

Then onto Hastings for a drive through the main centre where we decided to have a quick bite to eat in a lovely little cafe. 

Next stop Te Mata Peak, we originally planned to walk to the peak but with a long drive ahead we thought we’d take the easy option and drive straight up it. Wow what stunning views from the top – actually very happy we didn’t walk up this one!

Thought we’d better get a few miles done, so drove straight to Woodville had a quick toilet break and then onto Palmerston North to fill up with fuel (can’t believe the variations on price). Then I thought I’d better have a go at driving so did the next stint to Paekakariki beach on the west coast, couldn’t see much of the beach as the tide was in but the sea looked amazing. Dave took back over and after a final stop at Plimmerton, a charming town right on the sea, we arrived in the capital Wellington.

After a quick check in, we parked the car and changed and were then off out to explore.  Firstly we walked along the beach front and then walked back to the harbour, found the ‘Wellington’ sign and through a couple of parks.  There were loads of people around using the sea, swimming, diving, canoeing and even dragon boat racing. 

We then walked inland and found a roof top bar for a pre-dinner drink, then onto Cuba Street where we watched some salsa dancing in the street but Dave wouldn’t join in! We then found ‘Mexico’ for a really tasty Mexican feast. 

Next stop a funky little pub called Goldings Free Dive and then onto Hashigo Zake to sample yet more craft beer.

Total driving today 360km (223 miles)