The Rapley Blog

Mike and I went off and did a bit of exploring the other day whilst Cassidy was at her art class. We took a picnic and found a nice spot amongst the grass with a pretty awesome view! NZ has some spectacular views that need to be seen when visiting this part of the world.

We're really getting into the swing of life in New Zealand, I can't believe we've been here for almost 2 mths now, and it's been 3 mths since we left the UK to start our new nomad life. We go to the beach most days, either for a walk or a swim or both. Mike has found some pickleball groups, Cassidy is attending art classes, and we're looking at youth clubs and attending a home ed meet next week. Dakota is working full time in a bakery but is looking to find something in a music shop as that's where her passion is... We have a couple of weeks of summer left in New Zealand before the autumn season kicks in, but I'm looking forward to seeing what it's like in NZ, It has to be one of my favourite seasons.

Wow, what a beautiful beach! Governors Bay, we'll definitely be returning to you...

How was your pancake day?

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New Zealand is a great place for kids big and small! I remember loving this about the country the last time we visited. Every town has a playground, and a lot of them even have outdoor paddling/swimming pools. They are set up for all ages, from toddlers to big kids. One of the things that's been so sad to see in the uk is all the old playgrounds being taken away and replaced with smaller ones that are only suitable for little kids, where do the tweens and teens go to play? Even the parents can play on things with their kids in these playgrounds. Cassidy is 15, and the swings are her favourite thing to play on.

A few photos of the S***m Whales.
We managed to see two of these amazing mammals, in Kiakoura New Zealand’s, from the air, and it was truly spectacular!

Lovely airbnb night stop as we continue to drive south. You can see the harbour and the ferry in the distance. The sunset views and night sky were pectacular here.

The ferry from the North Island NZ to the South takes 3.5 hrs. You hop on in Wellington and get off in Picton. it's a beautiful crossing. The weather wasn't on our side, sadly, but the rain did ease off enough to enjoy the last hr of the crossing on the top deck. The ferries are fantastic with a soft play for kids, cinema, magic shows, and live music. The food is great on board, too. I remember the girls enjoying all the entertainment when we did this trip 7 years ago.