Just cooling off on our great balcony in Nelson looking out over a stunning view. Graham is in seventh heaven and there is a beach, bars and restaurants in walking distance. It does not get much better than this. 
Left Christchurch in cold drizzle which luckily was a day late turning up but by the time we had been on the road a couple of hours the sun was out and it was nearly 30 degrees . First stop Weka Railway and we were lucky enough to see the 11.30 train leaving the engine shed. Also saw about 50+ off road vehicles departing for a mass whatever they do. Sammy describes them as bogans, which I understand is the Kiwi term for someone who wears cut off wellies and wife beater vests. However they were a great bunch with their families on board and even had a bogan directing the traffic. 
Next stop Lewis Pass for a brief walk for half an hour which as usual involved steps and tree roots. Also as usual ended up talking to a lovely retired Kiwi lady (not enough space to include her life history I am afraid). 
Final stop Murchison for a pm as opposed to am coffee (had great plunger coffee mugs on board from Sammy for the morning). Very quaint historical museum where we just walked around the old farming stuff which kept him happy for a while. 
Longest day so far in the car but beautiful scenery and we now have five days in Nelson and time with great friends Tim and Catherine who are taking us out to play tomorrow.