If you are ever in Picton NZ, do yourself a favor and stay in the Atlantis Backpackers Hostel! This place is so odd and eclectic, but it is still clean and quiet. Every inch is painted to keep with the theme of Atlantis, the proprietor said it was all done by various people who’ve stayed there over the years. Being that we move pretty much every day, we don’t get to experience the full hostel vibe, but this one would make for some interesting stories I’m sure!

Today was the end of the F@cking Ferry Days, starting off on the ferry back to the north island. Our 3rd rental car of the trip proved to be a packing challenge since it was the smallest of the three. We made it fit, barely, and headed off to Zealandia to see one of the world’s first fully-fenced urban eco-sanctuary. This area has been created to show what species of plants, birds, and reptiles existed before their destruction by humans. It was our best (and probably only) opportunity to see a tuatara (ancient lizard) and a takahe (flightless bird).

 

 

 

We probably played longer than we should have at Zealandia, considering we had a 6 1/2 hr drive up to our next lodge. Luckily the Flaxy Lodge Motel was willing to leave our door open and let us arrive whenever! New Zealand is one dang big country when you are traveling north and south, and back again!