New Zealand, known as the "Land of the Long White Cloud". Australians have an affinity with New Zealand, a friendly neighbour, just across the Tasman Sea. It has a fascinating Polynesian Maori culture and is known for its incredible natural beauty. We always felt it was there waiting for another visit, perhaps when we tired of the long flights to Europe, or just wanted a shorter break in a beautiful land. We first visited New Zealand's North Island - Auckland and the Rotorua area, on our way to the Cook Islands, our honeymoon destination, but vowed to return at some time. It has taken a while but we accepted the offer of a home exchange in Nelson, in the north of the South Island.

"With more sunshine hours than almost anywhere else in the country, Nelson's dazzling white sand and golden sand beaches are a haven for holiday makers. The region is famous for its seafood, horticulture, fruit growing and local wines ..." AA Traveller. See my blog.