1/4/23 – Blenheim to Westport via Nelson Lakes National Park

Left Blenheim via Route 63 passing many of the vineyards (over 150!) and cellar doors (around 37) that are so prevalent in the Marlborough region. Stopped at the Stuleen Cherry Orchard in Renwick to purchase very tasty cherries 🍒 Once out of the lush valley we began our climb to the Nelson Lakes National Park. We visited the Visitor Center and left armed with trail maps. We completed 3 trails (Bellbird Walk, Honeydew Walk, & Brunner Peninsula Nature Walk) by Kerr Lake (and look at those black swans👀) and then began our journey through the mountains along the Buller River to Westport. Tomorrow we are headed to Punakaiki and the Paparoa National Park where we will walk to the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. We will then head to the Franz Josef Valley and glaciers.