Hopewell

Kenepuru Sound, South Island: 28th - 30th January

"A gorgeous backpackers lodge in a dreamy beachfront setting where even a couple of nights isn't enough to fully appreciate the relaxing setting and wonderfully welcoming hosts." (Rough Guide). With such an inviting review, we decided to head into the remotest region of the Marlborough Sounds and check this place out. Turned out to be the best decision we've made in a long time.

True to form, we were warmly welcomed with tea and home made brownies, a sure fire way to get into my good books. We were then shown around; people enjoying the sea views, hot tub, hammocks, golf course covered in sheep and collecting oysters from the beach. Generally a very chilled out place to be; Ed and I settled in well.

Having spent our first day enjoying the laid back vibe, we hired out a double kayak the next morning. The sun was shining, the water calm and everything was good. We even spotted the massive dark shadow of a skate. Unfortuantely, after a short peaceful paddle, we were promptly reminded that we were in fact in New Zealand, and not heaven. The dark, grey clouds had found us and enveloped the skies once more. We managed to find ourselves on the other side of the sound, battling against the wind, with our homely retreat looking a long way off. So we quickly checked out the local ship wreck and made a start back across the sound.

Shivering away and fighting against the waves, I declared that I just didn't find kayaking fun anymore. There was no time for tantrums though, we both wanted to get back and had no choice but to paddle on. We finally reached the shore cold and tired some four hours later, but very grateful to be back home. Hot shower, and a dip in the spa, and tranquility was resumed. After so much exertion, it only seemed right to regain the balance and once again succumb to the laziness of Hopewell.