We knew our time in Taupo was a stop through more than a visit. Living so close, we always feel like it’s more of a weekend destination spot. SOOOO, after a night in the caravan park we knew that we’d be on our way to Wellington.

The plan was to arrive after dinner and park up at our friend’s sister’s place. The plan. We have a lot of those in this family, but they often change, as they did that day. An hour into our drive my very clever husband suggested we call to see if there was availability on that evening’s ferry to Picton. I did. And there was. So, from that point on my husband was a maniac trying to make sure we made the last ferry. Maniac you ask, yes. Stop so your son can pee? Why would we do that, don’t we have a water bottle he can pee into? Yes, we do, but no we’re not going down that path!!!!! We pulled over.

Lunch? Do we really need to eat lunch? Can’t the kids wait until we’re on the ferry at 5:30? No, they can’t, but lordy did we run in and out to get their food.

Honey, I need to use the toilet! Can’t you wait? No I can’t? But, I did.

Funny, but we made it to the ferry 2 hours early. Yep. That’s how we roll. Manic craziness on the road to then sit around with only non-vegan friendly food around. Thanks babe. But, it was all good. We got on our ferry and made it into Picton by 9:30. Kids were good thanks to their devices and the views were spectacular. But more importantly no one vomited. That people is a big deal. I have heard so many nightmare stories of the Cook Straight Crossing that I feel as though New Zealand gave me a gift today.