About to leave my new heaven called Paratiho Farms. So enthralled with this place I did not mention where we stayed the night before last.

Grasmere Lodge was also a great place. This is in the high sheep country and the setting is idyllic. Huge mountains all around and rugged country. Great country walks, horseback riding, a tour of the farm is included. Quite different from where we are now with the rolling green hills.

We toured some smaller places in the area of Paratiho Farms that offer nice accommodation. This area is close to the Abel Tasman Park that offers boating, beaches, hiking, and great scenery. Eden House was just three rooms and included everything, breakfast, lunch dinner, wines etc. Almost like a homestay but with privacy, delightful couple that run the farm. The gardens are a sight to behold, with ducks, birds everywhere.

N.Z. has changed so much and now has so much more to offer in the way of comfortable and also absolute luxury accommodation. Of course it all comes with a high price tag for the best places.

The food has taken me by surprise. N.Z. has great produce, meats and fish but the ability to turn those fine ingredients into spectacular meals has improved drastically. All my "foodies" out there would love these lodges with their elegant and creative menus.

Okay I HAVE to leave now---- wish I could stay here longer, we are off to Taupo/Rotorua to see Huka Lodge and stay at Treetops.

Be back later. Perhaps some pictures tonight.