New Zealand 2007 

 

                                    Day Twenty-Two  Wanganui April 04

                                               

                                            Direction of travel has made an impact - By starting in the lower South Island and traveling North,

                                            we have circumvented the normal tourist direction.  Most arrive in the northern city of Auckland

                                            and travel South.  

 

                                            One of the surprise treats of our travel direction was the car rental company provided a free ferry

                                            crossing for the vehicle (Savings: $169 NZD).  It also saved some time since we didn't have to 

                                            unload all the suitcases and change vehicles at the end of the crossing.  All the major car rental

                                            companies will not allow vehicle crossings.  Fortunately, our NZ based company (APEX) is one of

                                            the few to allow ferry access.  Ferry service included a cafe, movie theatre, bar, and reclining

                                            seats.

 

                                            Prior to loading the car, an attendant walks past all the cars checking on potential "dirty boots".

                                            Because of an outside organism called Didymo (freshwater algae from Europe and North America)

                                            causing contamination of lakes and rivers, it was important to clean boots between islands and

                                            before arriving in the country.  The attendant will spray the boot soles with a strong detergent.

                                            This is part of the Biosecurity program in New Zealand - including a very long security check at

                                            airport arrivals. (Tip: always wear boots through security since the scan all luggage for footwear)

                            ,                 

                                            We will miss our resort accommodation - the Monaco Resort.  It was built as English cottages with

                                            extensive outdoor plants and old brick facade.  The interior had dark wood ceiling beams, remote 

                                            control fireplace, and flat panel TVs.  Service was impeccable in their friendliness and helpfulness.

                                            Only unique side was the actual pronunciation - "Mo-Nah-Kah" instead of "Mon-A-Koh".   We have

                                            yet to find the pattern to pronouncing most town and road names.

 

                                            Back to the road - Our arrival on the ferry was in the New Zealand Capitol Wellington,  We didn't

                                            spend time in the city and proceeded North.  Traffic was horrendous and the weather was dark

                                            and rainy.  A restricted lane ("T2") for car pools helped for a short distance.  After that, it was

                                            just brake lights for miles.

 

                                            Arrived in Wanganui late.

 

                                                                                            

    

                                                                                     

                                

                                                                                     

                    

                                                                                           

                                                                                            Last Updated 2007 March email@ellerberoad.com