Jan 5, 2026 Whiskey Falls
Seven miles in four hours! We hiked the Lakeside trail on the west bank of Lake Rotoiti, starting out fairly early to avoid the heat of the day.
Looking across the lake as the clouds slowly dissipate.
We made it to our destination, Whiskey Falls, the only falls marked on the maps around the lake. Set back from lakeside with steep, rough terrain around keeping us from getting any closer.
We left the shade of the forest to return and found the nearby boat ramp. A beautiful day for a walk!
Jan 4, 2026 Lake Rotoiti
Yesterday we drove from Picton to our B&B in St. Arnaud in the interior, gateway to Nelson Lakes National Park. Today we started our exploration of the Park.
Just a short 4km from our accommodation, and walking distance from the center of the tiny town of St. Arnaud, is Lake Rotoiti, a glacial lake at the edge of the Southern Alps.
After walking around the small peninsula protruding into the lake that separates Kerr Bay from West Bay we drove up Mt. Robert Road on the west side of the lake.
On the right flank of the lake is Mt. Robert overlooking the lake, looming behind me.
From the Mt. Robert Viewpoint, looking down on the lake.
Jan 3, 2026 A Philosophy to Live By
A banner at our B&B. Good Advice!
That philosophy and this view, what a combination!
Looking down at Whangarae Bay near Okiwi Bay beach. The storms have cleared for now!
Jan 2, 2026 Across Cook Strait
Ferry to the South Island today! Thank goodness the weather has cleared. There were some storms the last few days with winds that affected the ferries, making it difficult to dock!
We had a 2 hour wait to board the ferry, but at least we were close to the head of the line!
As we swung between an island and West Head of the South Island, a camera glitch makes it look like we were speeding! The crossing did seem to go faster than our last trip!
We landed at Picton and drove to our B&B for the night. We settled in and then went for a walk to downtown before another rain storm.
The palm trees at the Picton waterfront were lit up with some holiday colors in the deepening light and gathering storm clouds.
Dec 31, 2025 Butt Nuggets
We accompanied Sam to get some farm fresh eggs nearby!
Free range chickens make ….
