Port Chalmers, Dunedin & Fjordland National Park

The sights and sounds of the last two days have been incredible! Ship docked at Port Chalmers as the bay was not deep enough at Dunedin,NZ for us to dock safely. We walked into the little town and visited an old church, the grocery and pharmacy as well as a very talented jewelers. Dale and I poured over his jewelry and the beads !! he had for sale. She bought a hand made bead and I a necklace. Added to our cellar again as well.

After a lunch back at the ship we boarded a small van for our trip to mt. Cargill. Only 6 of us were brave enough to try the climb. We four, an 81 year old and a cruise ship employee. Our guide wore shorts and hiking boots, we were bundled up with whatever shoes we thought would work. He drove us to the access of the "track" and stairs to begin the climb. Setting off at a brisk pace he soon lost me and Henry with Z (from the ship) bringing up at the rear. Steps gave way to steep rocks and gravel, boards, and mud. We climbed the 800 ft additional elevation to the Organ pipe formation at the top of 1700 ft mountain. You can see them in some of the photos as well as rocks that have broken off from the group. Tea was served at the top! We tasted fuchia berries, a lemony and a peppery leaf, and anything else he could show us to eat. There are no dangerous things in NZ..amazing isn't it?? Only sand flies are annoying. Trip down was much easier and guide ran us through Dunedin so we could see it a bit. Sorry to not have more time here as it looked like a nice city with lots of bustling students.

Back aboard we saw the show and had a good dinner as usual. Tired from all the walking and climbing.

Yesterday we sailed around the bottom of NZ and into Fjordland national Park. It amazed me that the ship could go into those narrow channels between islands. Absolutely beautiful and very close up to the mountains and waterfalls. You can see the glacier in the distance. Some of the day was spent in the crows nest watching the scenery and with Dale teaching me a new beaded bracelet. I am not too far along due to tearing it out several times until I got the hang of the stitch. Now to learn turning the row and finishing it up.

We have two sea days now as we sail to Tasmania..should be relaxing. We have already exercised and eaten and now to see what is happening aboard.

Hope you are enjoying this blog!! Pass it along to others. I love to read the comments. Love to all......