Distance today = 52.56 km; Total distance = 1053.48 km; Location = Blenheim –  41 30.674′ S, 173 57.566′ E; Start time = 0831, Finish time = 1607

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/143075506

Today was a hard slog. It was the hottest day of the run so far, with the sun beaming down on me all day long. And there were lots of hills and mountain passes to traverse as well. But it was all worth it, as I passed vineyard after vineyard entering the Marlborough region.

Then the support crew surprised me with the accommodation they had arranged – a fantastic couple of units at the Marlborough Vinter’s Hotel. Check out the photos on the Home Page. It’s superb. Thank you very much to all the staff here at this very luxurious establishment. I’m looking forward shortly to sampling some the world famous sauvignon blancs and pinot noirs of the region, kindly provided by the hotel.

I’m a little tired after a big week so far. In the first five days of this week I’ve chalked up 286 km. I’m looking forward to a bit of a rest now. Tomorrow I only have a short day of 28 km to the Wellington ferry at Picton. We will be saying goodbye to the South Island, and heading across the Cook Strait to the North Island.