Milford Sound It had not been part of my plan to go to Milford Sound - it's a long drive - but due to local weather conditions I reasoned it would be my best bet. And I was richly rewarded. Gods, to think if I hadn't done that, I would have missed one of the most beautiful spots in the world. And this was the only sunny day in many weeks' time - what a lucky coincidence.

Queenstown Some of the best scenery to be found in NZ - never mind the party-goers.

The Remarkables Another wow. A great climb, a spectacular view like from a plane and a sheer vertical drop on one side - the Remarkables truly deserve their name.

Franz Josef Glacier Taking the helicopter and hiking the glacier - maybe my best memory.

Russel / Paihia Ah, Russel. What a beautiful litte place. Tranquil, quiet, so much unlike the noisy and touristy Paihia just across the bay. Incredibly restful. And a good base to dive the Rainbow Warrior.

Rotorua Odours of sulphur pervade the town, and the national parks with their volcanic origin will fascinate you - geysers and hot springs galore.

Mt Cook Wow. The scenery along the way alone would have been worth the drive. And I got to see Mt Cook at sunset.

Tranzalpine Taking the train to cross the Alpes.

Wellington New Zealand's capital, and it is sad I could only spend one day there as it was easily the most atmospheric and captivating city in Kiwi land. Cuba Road...

Arrowtown Chosen as an alternative place to stay (Queenstown was full), this turned out to be a surprise as it was one of the locations where Lord of the Rings was filmed.

Auckland Auckland is ok, but it didn't inspire me in any way - somehow a poor copy of Sydney in too many respects. Except for the TV tower! Oh, and the Queen Elisabeth 2 called in while I was there.