Day 4: Dunedin to Oban

Dawned a lovely clear day as we set off for Bluff and the Foveaux Strait ferry to Stewart Island. Despite this crossing's fearsome reputation, we struck a sunny day and a calm crossing. Stewart Island is fantastic: now I understand why everyone who's been there raves about it! We stayed in the lovely old South Pacific Hotel. Beaut weather—somewhat to my surprise I was wearing light summer clothing, and I still got hot.

Map points: Invercargill; Bluff; Oban

We went for a big walk, incorporating the Fuchsia and Raroa

tracks—amazing short bush walks in Oban itself. Beautiful bush and many birds. Went on to the end of Thule Road, the southernmost road in NZ, admiring the many sea views. M walked on further (3 hours more was a bit much for me) while I walked back a different way, diverting to Observation Rock for the view. Spent a pleasant couple of hours in the bar at the hotel waiting for Margaret.

Pictures: Oban from across Halfmoon Bay; typical scene; dressed for summer; from southernmost road. Bigger pictures: Raroa Walk; full moon across Halfmoon Bay