It is hot in the 30s*c with a strong gusty wind. It’s like walking with a hairdryer around me!

We went along to  White Bay today. The bay is called after a black American who jumped ship from a whaling ship and joined the local Maori tribe. He was well thought of and was named White Jack Black by the Europeans and Mr White by the missionaries.The Bay was named after him.

We travelled past acres of vines and fruit trees. The road was ok but a few hairpin bends. The first town on the plain was Rarangi. We stopped at the coast to view. We could see a sea stack at the end of this Bay.

Up over the hillside we got a good view of the vineyards.

White Bay was nestled in the wooded hills surrounding. There were showers and changing rooms and toilets and a camp site too. We parked in the car park and wandered to the beach. Here at this spot was sited the first telegraph cable in 1860.

There was a cave and a stack nearby. I’m sure we will come and spend more time here.

It is too hot for me today.

We went to Blenheim and enjoyed the air conditioning in the shops. The town is tidy and well designed. There is a war memorial clock tower in the park close to the shopping area and it is built of different layers of stone from the area. Also the huge trees are all different kinds and native to NZ. I especially liked the pink oak tree.

There is another bell tower/ clock in the centre of Town

We found a brilliant park full of Summer flowers a stream and trees. It was shady and cool in the shade there.

Back at motel and ate a magnum classic and bought some salad items for our tea tonight

Hope Louis Alice and Matthew are feeling better today.

Xavi was very ill for 2 weeks with a nasty tummy gastro type bug. He and Otis are well and enjoyed the snow on Friday .

I love hearing news of you all and now we have reliable Wifi it’s easier to pick it up. Love to Anona and Lily too

Take care and lots of love grandma and grandad xxx