Day 15 Hamner to Blenhiem

We left Hanmer Springs in a foggy mist, but it was warm so we didn't mind. We shortly found the road we wanted which is part of the Triangle Pacific Route. It was a winding country rode through foothills and pastureland. I came close to hitting a cow that bolted across the rode in front of me and had to stop for another until it moved. Nonetheless, it was a fine ride to Kaikoura a coastal town on the Pacific (east) coast. We stopped for a latte then headed up SH 1 which hugs the coast. It made for a fun, scenic ride as the sun shone and the day got warmer.

We were headed for Blenheim the heart of the Marlborough wine region. We arrived at Traminer View B&B and were greeted by our hostess Margaret. We were show to our comfy room with balcony and a large bath. Margaret took the time to give us a map of the area and tell us where some of the smaller wineries are located. She also recommended lunch at Highfield Estate a vineyard/winery. I had a yummy seafood chowder, David had soup and salad, and we both had a fine vineyard view. I also had a glass of their award winning Sauvignon Blanc the varietal that this area is most famous for. We headed out for a few more tastings. I knew there we some good Pinot Noirs from this area so that was what I was tasting. Of the four I tasted my favorite was from the Bladen vineyard.

We got back to Traminer View in time for a walk before joining our hosts for some wine an cheese before dinner. Because I had told them of my preference for Pinot Noir they had 3 for us to try. All were good but both David and I preferred the Huia, which also, it turns out is one of Margaret's favorites. Both Nick, who is a doctor and Margaret are very wine savvy and shared some of their knowledge. Traminer View is not only a B&B but a small vineyard growing Gewurztraminer grapes for a local winery.

After our tasting with the hosts we walked about 1/2 mile up the road to Astons on Main Restaurant where we enjoyed a fine meal with good wine. The Coconut and Bacardi Panncotta was the best dessert I can remember. Our cute waitress and owner (with her husband) was one of the most efficient servers I have ever seen. We walked back full and ready for sleep.

Nick and Margaret are a very kind and generous Christian couple whose 7 children are all grown and enjoy their role as hosts. We had a lovely breakfast with plenty of fresh fruit. M even made me a flat white coffee, which is like our latte, even though they have a latte that has more foam. As we were getting ready to leave, I handed Margaret a card and she noticed our "God is Love" motto. she appreciated it and shared that they were Christians as well. We were able to let them know how blessed we were to be there, and how we had enjoyed God's protection. We said goodbye to Nick, Margaret and their 2 cool Burmese cats, one who meowed for a while at our door as we were going to sleep, and headed for the Picton Ferry.