Nelson

Fran and Linda walking Tahunanui Beach in the evening.

We settled into Nelson for a 10 day stay. Our apartment is an upscale modern building overlooking the harbour. It is a 15 minute walk from the city centre and all of the necessary shops and services. We can walk to everything and have not moved the car since we arrived.

Nelson receives the most sun of any place in New Zealand and we have enjoyed a straight run of sunny, blue sky days. The sun is hot, but the constant sea breeze creates a very comfortable temperature. It is the gateway to Abel Tasman Park, a national park accessible only by water or by foot. A water shuttle leaves the city from a dock directly opposite our building and stops at a dozen beaches in the park. Nelson has a vibrant arts and crafts community. There are nearly two dozen galleries in the downtown district alone, which is about 8 blocks in size. It is also the city of beaches.



As planned, we have dropped out of tourist mode to "let’s just live here" mode. The fresh fish shop across the way has provided our protein while the farmers markets have provided the local fresh fruits and vegetables. Needless to say, the wine has been New Zealand white and since it is sold at the grocery store, there is always some on sale. Walks downtown have revealed a variety of cafés, restaurants, galleries, shops and an excellent public library. There is something for each of us.

Fran on a hike in Abel Tasman Park

Fran's view

We have enjoyed the beaches and the walks in Abel Tasman Park. Once again Fran set herself a hiking goal and met it. All along the park’s shoreline are bays of various sizes, all with a golden sand beach. They are very popular with boaters, kyakers, and hikers. Nelson is built on a narrow stretch of land between the ocean and The Ranges, a set of mountains. Walking trails through The Ranges are just minutes from downtown.

Ken enjoying the same view as Fran. Where's Ken

A family enjoying a Sunday picnic. Instead of driving to the park, they boat to a bay and picnic on the beach.

A typical bay with a beach. It is high tide so the beach is small.

Our beach.

Ken enjoying our beach.

So our stay here is nearly at an end. On Friday the two couples part ways once again for 10 days. Fran and I are headed up to Golden Bay and then down the west coast.