And no room at the inn.

 February 26th

The wait was long! The weather turned nasty, water came in through the roof hatch, just a drip every so often but enough to dampen the carpet. We had also made the bed in readiness for finding a space in the wee hours of the morning at the NZMCA park at Plimmerton. No drips on the bedding thank goodness.

The ferry arrived slightly after 10.pm. The off loading was quick and soon cones were removed from lanes to allow the vehicles to board. We had hoped to be one of the first so near to the front were we, but no. Lane 5 with all the caravans and vehicles towing and then lanes 3, 1, and 2. We were on the fourth lane and the very last to be called to board. 

The ferry was full, all tables and chairs taken with passengers and only one table and chair left which was already occupied by a young man. He beckoned us over to share, I was slightly concerned because of Ian's Covid status but he went as far from the chap as he could and of course the masks were worn. 

An announcement from the Captain, he would do everything in his power to get the ferry in at Wellington early. True to his word, it was well before the allocated time for leaving that he left. 

Now there was quite a swell on, the wind and rain was with us for the whole journey. Many people left their seats to lay under the tables, more to get some sleep than seasickness. Our companion did the same leaving us with the table for ourselves. Out came the Quiddler and the hours passed very quickly. By 2.30ish the docking was complete. Took a further 30 minutes for disembarkation. 

Blast, that was Ian's hand, a fluke rather than skill! He went on to win that game!

 

 

Not a single vehicle on the SH 1, the rain continued to fall and it was a miserable drive to Plimmerton.

We were tired, ready just to get our heads down and we couldn't believe our misfortune when not a single space was to be had at the NZMCA park. A factory unit was nearby, it was also a Sunday which meant no workers to move us on. So that was where we stayed, got about 4 hours sleep before deciding we had best move. One cup of tea later, no wash or breakfast and the bed stayed unmade, we headed for Wellington. 

NZMCA park

 

Now I know why we hate cities. The traffic reminded us of the UK and not a parking space to be had anywhere. Passing the cricket ground we discovered why. England was playing New Zealand!

Jaycar the electronics shop was almost in the centre and we despaired about being able to stop to change my laptop charger. Then...Oh glory be...they had their own small car park. Not so lucky at the photo warehouse. I had lost my polarized lens cap and wanted a replacement. Ian had to drop me off and go around the block three times before I reappeared clutching my prize!

By this time we had had enough. Getting a bit dehydrated through lack of tea and coffee and still having had no food despite the time being 1.45 pm, it was off to find somewhere to stay and finally relax. This was found at a place called Owhiro Bay. Freedom camping permitted and we slotted in nicely between two cars. What a relief to be back on the North Island. At one stage we did wonder if this would happen at all. 

Not sure what tomorrow will bring.Ian's test is still positive I'm negative so going anywhere with lots of people is out of the question It's enough that we are here today.

 And one wildlife photo from this morning,

Spur-winged Plover