Nins Bin

Situated on the main south road just north of Kaikoura is the world famous (in New Zealand) crayfish cabin selling fresh local lobster. The best place to get Cray fish on the east coast since 1977, cheaper and fresher than the outlets in town, it is the only place to truly savour this local delicacy. Priced from as little as $25NZ this must be one of the cheapest places anywhere to sample lobster. If you are heading north to Malborough, or south to Kaikoura you can't miss it, set inches from the sea with the waves lapping.

Kekerengu Stores

Just by Kekerengu Stores north of Kaikoura on the main South Road, South Island of New Zealand. Miles and miles of stunning coastline rewards the traveller from Kaikoura north to Malborough.

Kekerengu Stores is an oasis on the main south road between Kaikoura and Malborough. It seems a fairly long way through relatively unispiring landscape (compared to what you may have already seen) and the cafe in the stores is just mouthwatering heaven. It is a must, you will see why when you visit.

New Regent Street Christchurch New Zealand

To many Christchurch is just the city where the airport is. In many respects after several weeks of stunning, even mind blowing scenery Christchurch just isn't that exciting. New Regent Street in the city centre is worthy of a peek. It is easy to find, just jump on the tourist tram which does a loop of the city taking in most of the few sights the city has to offer. Be sure to actually get of at Christchurch Arts Centre and whilst there also visit the free Christchurch Art Gallery.

The arts centre has a craft market on Saturday and Sunday which has some good stalls. The arts centre has some excellent outlets specialising in wood, embroidery and patchwork, handspun wool, weaving and art works. There are regular exhibitions and outdoor entertainers most weekends.

The new art gallery is a superb building which has only recently been completed. It has some good examples of european Moari portraits, paintings by early settlers and a variety of european classical style pieces.

Sunset, Punakaiki

The west coast of New Zealand, particularly Punakaiki, seems blessed with some stunning sunsets. We have spent many enjoyable evenings sipping on a glass of NZ Reisling on the steps of our favourite accommodation Wave Watchers. It is simply one of the best self catering establishments we have stayed in anywhwere in the country. Pricey, and worth it.

Punakaiki is one of the best places on the West Coast of New Zealand to break your journey if you are looking for a perfect kiwi experience. Long unspoilt mostly deserted beaches strewn with drift wood from the expanses of rain forest. There is one pub in Punakaiki which gets busy during peak periods. Get there early if you are planning on eating. The food is very good standard kiwi pub grub, the sea food is worth a look.

There is limited accommodation in Punakaiki, more than most villages in New Zealand so you are well advised to book early, even before your visit if you are coming from overseas.

Old english

Rusting car in New Zealand. There are plenty of Morris Minors and Austin cars dotted around on side roads and in fields, left to degrade gracefully in the sun. Some would say this is a great shame, I think they are beautiful, as long as they are not spoiling the landscape.

Tumble down Nelsonian House

Possibly one of New Zealands most photographed houses, just West of Nelson this place might fall down if the wind was strong enough!