Good bye South Island...

Okay, so this posting is a bit late as I've been in Wellington for two days now...loving the sun and the warmth but not really enjoying the strong winds.

The crossing of the Cook Strait was in a word "different" than my previous crossings. I felt as though I didn't want to leave, perhaps it was the people that I've met in my travels and the friendships that have made the difference this time. The only thing keeping me going is the fact that the weather is getting nasty on the South Island and beautiful sunny days are disappearing into the Autumn.

Even on the Interislander I met some great kiwi's one older woman that was quite impressed with my extensive travel and love for this small country in the South Pacific...she even said that maybe I'll meet a nice kiwi girl and end up moving here (made me smile).

Also, I met the Engineer of the Interislander (named Vince) who decided to offer to tour me around the ship - so I got to see the engine room, the propulsion room and even the bridge - where I met the captain, I know that sounds weird for a 34 year old man but at the same time I enjoyed learning about the ship and seeing parts of it that not many travelers would get to see. I guess I'm a bit like Forrest Gump in the sense that I seize these opportunities when they present themselves and experience life as it happens to the fullest all around me.

Anyway, above I've included a pic of the Marlborough Sounds again...and the fabulous weather that I experienced. Off to Auckland bright and early tomorrow morning.