New Zealand - Akaroa cottages 5th - 7th October

Mary's turn for the body search by airport security this time, Cath's last time. Perhaps I look less of a threat or else my turn is next! Air New Zealand do self service check in and bag drop, so we had a brief delay when it was discovered we hadn't completed all the immigration forms. Flew into Christchurch on the south island and picked up hire car. We are now exactly 12 hours ahead of GMT. The temperature is a very pleasant mid 20s. Our first stop is Akaroa which is about 1.5 hours from the airport along a very winding road. The back seat in car is so low that Cath needs a booster cushion to see out! :) Had a barbeque on the terrace overlooking the harbour.
Beautiful scenery and view from the cottage. The place is very quiet and relaxing after the hubbub of Melbourne. In the harbour there are trips to see the very small Hector dolphins, unique to New Zealand and the little blue penguins. We are taking one of the walks instead as should be plenty of opportunity to see the sea life at one of our next stops.
Hoping to see the cardboard cathedral in Christchurch when we start our journey northwards on the 7th. Then next stop Kaikoura.