Killah in Germany

Well, that didn't happen. For one, the ferry arrived late. Secondly, there was a sign along the road from Picton stating "No Camping - Next 33 km", even though my guidebook listed a place about 10km out of town. And thirdly, there were two long hills to climb on the way out. I got to the top of the second one before I conceded that I wouldn't make it to Havelock, so I should turn back and camp at Picton. Which is what I did. 

Bonuses of turning back: I got to coast down the giant hill that I had just climbed. I got to see downtown Picton again. And I had time to snap a few pics. 

The ferry ride itself was ok. There are two different companies that operate passenger ferries on the Cook Straight. Since I'd taken the Interislander with my sister before, I decided to take the other one, Bluebridge. They had free wifi so I spent most of the ride on the internet. But I did manage to snap a few photos. 

So really, today was a rest day, with the exception of a bit of mountain biking I did with Thomas after breakfast before I left for the ferry. I took Julie's bike out and Thomas coached me (I'd never mountain biked before). He had wanted to go the night before at 10pm but I'm glad I waited until daylight for my first experience. It was scary enough without the darkness! I'm glad I tried it though - even though I fell over. 

Camping in Picton is overpriced. I am paying $20 for a tent site! But after staying with WS hosts for the last several nights, I suppose I am very spoiled. Time to see if the weather is warm enough for tenting!