Hmm, I'm not so sure about booking DOC sites online either, but the suggestion to email ahead sounds like a good one. Not long now, right? We're having stunning weather here at the moment - very sunny and warm. It may go downhill again around New Years, but hopefully it should be good for your visit!

I would agree with the suggestion regarding sunscreen. I spent a month in Europe wandering round under cloudless skies in 30 degree temperatures with not a hint of burn. I went out for a gentle Christmas day ride yesterday and got thoroughly sunburned!

If you happen to be passing between Queenstown and Cromwell look out for the Remarkable Wines tasting room in Gibbston Valley (on Coalpit Rd just off the main highway). If Richard Guthrey is behind the counter tell him his daughter-in-law Pip sent you and hopefully he will sort you out!