Someone’s Birthday. Presents and a bit of a slow getaway
We take a morning trip out to Hokitika Gorge. When we came here last year the water was just grey, but this year, even though it’s overcast again we see the stunning glacial blue that it should be. It’s just such a stunning place. Grey or Blue.
A bit different from last year. 
Someone didn’t want their photo taken
We take the scenic route back via Dorothy Falls and Lake Kaniere. Not too much driving.
After spending a bit of down time back at the van park and down the beach, we take a trip into town. First, a visit to the beach side sign and we now understand why the lounge chair is still there. It’s made of concrete!
We visit the glass blowing factory on the main street, it amazing the work they do, and Justine buys a couple of small pieces as a souvenir.
Then as a surprise for the kids, we’ve planned to go to the movies. That one of the reasons for being here in Hokitika, it’s one of the few towns that has a cinema. The kids enjoy watching Incredibles II.
After the movie to kill some time we go back to the beach to watch the sunset. There is a guy there (DoC?) who shows Liam (and us) how to create a spear stick with these leaves of these palms that are around. Quite neat.
Then to Fat Pipi’s Pizza for a birthday dinner. They are very cheesey pizzas, so unfortunately not the best we’ve had, but you can’t win them all. The kids have icecream (no sundae this time) so they’re happy.
Back to the caravan park and out with the birthday cake and we try not to burn the van down.
And for a second year in a row we get a “best birthday ever!”
A pretty relaxed day for all, so on day 8 that’s not a bad break.
Best Birthday Ever….Again