Oamaru – Wide tree lined streets, old sandstone Victorian buildings, a really interesting historic area, Blue Penguins and of course, Steampunk HQ. It is a great place to wander around, lots to see, plenty of places to eat and get a coffee. A huge steam train engine greets you at the entrance to the Steampunk HQ and if you pop a gold coin in the box…well, it made me smile! We had a stroll around the bay to the huge sandstone penguin and later, when we went out again, we managed to see a real one returning for the evening. If you like whiskey, you must visit The new Zealand Whiskey Collection Cellar Door. There you will find a range of Whiskeys which you are able to try. I am not a whiskey drinker but even I liked the Doublecask. It is really good stuff!

Timaru – birth place of the racing legend Phar Lap, a huge port and another place to spot those Little Blues at Caroline Bay with it’s sweeping sandy beach.