There’s one thing that is often overlooked in New Zealand. The weather especially in the west is unpredictable, variable, and usually involves a lot of rain. The last time we visited in January/February (Mid Summer) the country was hit by a tropical storm and when we were in Te Anau, over 300mm of rain in about 12 hours and the bridges at both ends of the road serving the glaciers were closed.
When we left Arthurs Pass, the weather was dull and grey, with low clouds and drizzle, and we made our way along the coast to Punakaiki, it was not the most inspiring. When we arrived at the Paparoa Park Motel, the room was a big airy log cabin. The view from the window was one of my favourites.
And we had our first close encounter with a Wera bird. Who seemed as interested in us as we were in it.
The other side of the beach is the headland with Pancake Rocks - another New Zealand strange rock formation.
The next morning it was back to being grey. The sea was rougher and spectacular waves were breaking in the pools.
The grey cloud continued the next morning but brightened up when we went up the Buller Valley.
We stayed at the Alpine Lodge in St Arnaud. It was a stunning setting in the Nelson Lakes National Park. Opening the door to the patio - this was the view.
In the evening rabbits grazing and the following morning we had a family of ducks for company.
It was only a short walk from the hotel to Lake RotorIi, with it's woodland walks.
There was a final sight for the night.
I looked out of the window, to see one of the best night skies I have ever seen. I went out for a better look the photos from the phone do not do the sky justice it was amazing.
