In and around Nelson

Stephen and I have decided that we really like the small city of Nelson. Today we made our way up to the lookout that takes in views of both the Tasman Sea and deep water channel and then back behind towards the bay and the mountains......and the views were just breathtaking. Our next stop was the Suter Gallery and Queen's Gardens, right in the heart of the city. Bishop Suter and his wife Emily were some of the founding fathers/mothers of the Port of Nelson and they had the forethought to bring with them some of the most wonderful and important paintings of their time. These are now on display in the recently renovated gallery that bares their name. The Queen's Gardens, while small are beautifully laid out and full of lovely plants and flowers.

After a quick stop to take a photo of the Church of Christ cathedral we went to visit Pirate Pearl (real name Robyn) at her sail making factory. We met Pearl last night over drinks on the deck at Wakefield Quay House. We had gathered to watch the yachts racing around the harbour. Pearl is a long time friend of our hostess Woodi. Both women are absolute characters who have lived the most interesting and diverse lives. Pearl now lives on a catamaran and makes sails and interesting duffle style bags.

Our day trip then took us to the wharf area of Mapua where we had lunch overlooking the water. It is about a 30 minute trip from where we are staying. The drive takes you out through the vineyards and is very pretty.

We arrived back at the house just after three where we were treated to a wonderful display by five orca whales who were playing and feeding not 100m off the beach. They stayed around for about 45 minutes and it was amazing to see. Woodi tells us that it is quite rare to see them at all, let alone that close to the shore.