Yes, crossing the Cook Strait to the South Island came next. Kris, Bob and I took the Interislander Ferry across to Picton from Wellington. Driving the car onto the ferry was a first for me. Since I don't know my way around Wellington by car all that well, it was definitely an early morning challenge, but we got there without any problem.
It was a beautiful day for the crossing:
From Picton we stopped in Blenheim for a quick lunch enroute to our final destination, Nelson. I'd forgotten that Kris and Bob are serious wine afficionados, and with the route from Blenheim to Nelson packed with amazing wineries and vineyards the driver was asked to detour by just a few cellar doors for tasting: Fromm, Seresin (both an organic and biodynamic producer), Spy Valley, and last but not least, Gibson Bridge. At this time of year grapes are being frantically harvested 24/7 (as are apples), so it's an interesting time to visit the region. A stop at Gibson Bridge was recommended to us by Fromm given our interest in pinot gris; the boutique winery is making acclaimed and innovative wines with this particular varietal. The owner Howard spent quite a bit of time with us explaining their wines, philosophy and business. I had never heard of them before this, but we're now dedicated fans for sure.
After these pitstops we made it to Nelson, where sunny blue skies reigned supreme for our entire visit. The following day we popped over to Golden Bay, finishing up in Mapua for an early sunset dinner at Jellyfish Cafe on the wharf.
Our real reason for having an early dinner in Mapua was to attend the opening of the Pastel Artists of New Zealand's national exhibition at the nearby community hall. Friend Glen Davenport, and as it turns out friend Anne Bannock, were two of the artists with pieces on exhibition. So after dinner we spent some time browsing and admiring pastel works from across New Zealand.
The remainder of our time in Nelson was spent walking on Tahunanui Beach, going to the fantastic Nelson Market on Saturday, and the Wakefield Heritage Apple Fair on Sunday.
Apples deserve a separate post, which you'll see next. I might even throw in a quince or two!
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