position S035 19.100 E174 07.200
Ocean Rival Journey Log
Adam Power Diana Power
Wed 2 Jan 2019 18:24
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Next morning we took the hire car back to the depot and they kindly gave us a lift down to the ferry terminal. We had a bit of time to spare so I had a wander up to the parliament buildings and the neighbouring (modern) Cathedral of St Paul.
Once aboard the ferry the rain started to fall with intent and the last few deck hanging stalwarts headed in to the warmth of the lounge. The view of the north island coast was quickly lost in the rain and mist and the south island was no-where to be seen.  We shared a table with 2 german girls who were touring in a car like us, but were less impressed with the speed limits (100kph max) having been unshackled on the unrestricted Autobahns. We had been anticipating a rough crossing with the strong wind but the Cook Straight was surprisingly benign - the wind direction favourable.  The mist lifted a little to reveal some albatross circling the boat with the shearwater in attendance. The shores of Queen Charlotte sound were just visible as we aproached Picton. We were running late and so were glad that the car hire office in Wellington had arranged for our south island car to be left at the Ferry terminal and the key was waiting for us at the desk. The car was not remarkable in any way other than being surprisingly tatty in comparison with our previous model. It became apparent later that south island cars do get rougher treatment the their north island cousins, but the Tilda performed with steady determination and reliability for the next 2 weeks, despite failing to turn a single head. We picked up a few provisions in Picton and then wriggled along the windiest road yet to our BnB just outside Havelock. A large apartment under the house with views out to the Mahakipawa arm of Pelorus sound. |
