Southland Travels

I know it's been a while since I have put anything new on here! Sorry about that.

Partly this is because there's actually been a lot going on, but partly it's also because I have been lazy. Last week, Stacey saw her parents off for their return to Atlanta, after having spent a week travelling in the southern parts of the South Island. Today's post shares some photos from their adventures. Also in the news, Stacey landed a new job. It's a really great role, something that is perfectly suited to her, and in the film industry. She just started this week and has been busy learning the ropes of the new job.

As promised, here's a few photos from Joan & Ian's visit...

Ian and Joan under the waharoa (entry gate) to the marae at Te Papa Museum here in Wellington. The weather was fantastic during there time in the city. The time was well-spent here, giving them an opportunity to see how things were going for us (where we lived, what life was like, etc.) and also to explore Wellington itself, which they had not done extensively in the past. Like I said, Wellington is not a long stopover point for most tours unless you've got heaps of time to spend.

Ian reminiscing outside of Nelson College

The first leg of their trip south took them across the Cook Straight via ferry to Picton, and then to Nelson. I think Ian in particular enjoyed exploring the town. He could see how it had changed and visit old stomping grounds like Nelson College. It was also an opportunity for the family to spend some time at Stacey's grandparent's grave site and pay their respects. Stacey and I spent only a brief amount of time in Nelson (on our way to Abel Tasman National Park) during our 2005 trip, but I remember being very nice. Many Americans who come to New Zealand move to Nelson.

Thesecond part of their trip was a visit to Fiordland National Park and Doubtful Sound. It takes a bit of effort to get there, but it's well worth every bit, as these photos attest.

The Ferdinands gang conquers Moeraki Beach

The last leg of their trip took them to Dunedin. There, they were able to catch up with Stacey's cousin Andrew, his family, and her Auntie Rosemarie.

Rosemary, Ian, Joan and Stacey

I can hear Stacey now, encouraging Ian to climb into this Moeraki Boulder. There is some pretty disgusting stuff down in there, I assure you. All sorts of seaweed and critters wash in there when the tide is in and get stuck, making for a really stinky brew. As you can see, Ian is trying to keep his feet dry. One thing we have learned is that you want to time a visit to see the Moeraki boulders when the tide is out!

As with my Mom's trip, their itinerary took them to the Otago Peninsula to see sights such as Larnach Castle. I remember Andrew and his wife, Jackie, taking us on a driving tour around Dunedin and around the peninsula during our 2005 trip, but it was completely shrouded in fog. Dunedin has a reputation for its Scottish heritage. I suspect that many Scots found the rolling green hills and misty coastlines a close reminder of home. Today, that heritage is still evident in Dunedin's architecture, street names and culture.