Nelson to Lake Rotoiti to Picton

Last weekend we drove to lake Rotoiti to check out the DOC site for camping. It was perfect. Close to the Lake and close to lots of native walks. Unfortunately because it's a DOC site we can't take the dogs. I'm not sure who will miss who more...the dogs missing us or us missing the dogs???
After lake Rotoiti we drove through the Wairau Valley towards Blenheim. We were surprised by the amount of vineyards. They are everywhere!
Where do they get all their workers from?
And, the work involved in putting in all those posts! There were SO many and there were acres and acres of them!
We found another good camping spot in Blenheim. It was beside the river and this one allowed dogs.
Next, we drove to Picton and then drove through Queen Charlotte Drive back home. Unfortunately we ran out of daylight so we didn't get to see the sights while driving through Queen Charlotte....(note to self: must get up earlier when doing these day trips!).

FR-Freezing!

The fur-babies waiting in the warm while we were braving the cold!
NO DOGS ALLOWED! 

Looking towards the Lake from the Information Centre (worth a visit)

"Wairau Valley".
Sunshine, vineyards, vineyards and more vineyards...

We recommend this cafe as a place to stop...
It's in Renwick, opposite Woodbourne.

The burger that Bernie ordered from a choice of about 12 different burgers. And yes he did eat it all, along with chips, a beer and a hot chocolate. The chef was obviously impressed because he came out and shook Bernie's hand!

This is the Bristol Freighter that used to fly to The Chatham Islands.

Picton

"Momorangi Bay"
We arrived too late to admire the view, but took a walk to the jetty and discovered a seal (huge) asleep at the end!