New Zealand has the reputation of being one of the most beautiful countries in the world. I'm one of the lucky 4 million or so who live here.

During January of this year, 2007, I spent a glorious three weeks on holiday, mostly down the South Island. I normally reside in the small city of New Plymouth, which is about halfway up the west coast of the North Island, however I really do love the south very much.

The most common and popular way to cross the Cook Strait, between the two main islands, is via one of a handful of ferries. These travel each way several times a day, weather permitting. One way takes about three hours, depending on the ferry, though it's not something many people would want to hurry! In fact, this would have to be one of my personal favourite experiences. On this last trip down I was treated to the most beautiful sunset journey through the Marlborough Sounds, though sadly I didn't have my camera handy. On the trip back I couldn't have wanted for a more glorious summers day, and this time I did have my camera.

Trust me when I tell you that the scenery is breathtaking! Sometimes passengers are also treated to an experience of dolphins swimming alongside the boat. (On occasion, however, due to bad weather, the passage can be a little unsettling, to say the least. This may result in the loss of all stomach content, and/or a lie-down all the way! It's a good job that the ferries supply 'sick bags'.)

Luckily for me, both the trip over, as well as the trip back were glorious. Not even a tipple of wine could unsettle me. Just a pity that the company in the photo weren't up to partying!

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