Christchurch

Above: A tram rumbling down one of the quaint streets of Christchurch on the South Island. Below: The pretty little town of Akaroa (meaning Long Harbour in Maori),82km from Christchurch, is the site of the country’s first French settlement.

Wellington harbour

The view from the ferry on a harbour cruise - after three days of glorious sunshine and warm weather, the clouds set in and the wind picked up again.

Karori Wildlife Sanctuary

Karori Wildlife Sanctuary is a safe haven for endangered native birds and other wildlife, just 5 minutes from Wellington. It is 252ha of native forest, with 34km of walking tracks.

The view from the top

Braced against the strong winds at the top of Mt Victoria (196m), overlooking Wellington. The scenic lookout is located east of the city centre.

Makara beach walk

Above: The view from the top of the cliff along Makara beach, west of Wellington. We had a clear view of the South Island across the water. Below: The sparkling blue waters of the beach below us.

Botanic Gardens, Wellington

Above: A ride on Wellington's cable car to the top of the hill where the Botanic Gardens are located. The 25ha gardens are classified as an historic area. Below: the view looking back down towards the city.

Above: A tranquil scene in the Botanic Gardens. Below: An explosion of colour.

Parliament buildings

Above: The Executive Wing of New Zealand's Parliamentary complex, known as the Beehive. Below: The Parliament buildings in Wellington.

Rangitoto Island

4 January: Celebrating my birthday with a walk up to the top of Rangitoto in the heat and humidity!

Rangitoto (260m) is believed to be an extinct volcano, located 20 minutes by ferry from Auckland.

Auckland skyline

The city skyline from Mt Eden in Auckland. Known as Maungawhan, it is an extinct volcano, the highest in the area at 196m.