We crossed from South Island to North Island early on the morning of 2nd March, a lovely crossing in the morning light, which begins by travelling through the Marlborough Sounds then heads out into the Cook Strait.
Having explored the eastern coast of North Island earlier on our trip we headed up the west coast, breaking our journey for a few days in the Mount Taranaki area.
Mount Taranaki is a dormant volcano and stands strangely tall and alone in an otherwise flat landscape of pasture land. In fine weather you can't miss it! It last erupted in 1775 and scientists say another eruption is overdue. Simon managed the stiff climb to the summit with a lot of determination. no mean fea
t at 2518 metres.Now we are north of Auckland at the tiny coastal resort of Langs Beach. There isn't a shop for several miles in either direction, but this was the view one evening! We have spent the last few days bringing the trip to a close. We have sold the car and been to the charity shop with things we can't bring home. And still we have too much to bring!
