Exploring CBD; Mardie Gras New Orleans style; Founders' Heritage Park

What a lovely city Nelson is - a good size for Whitianga-ites. There seemed to be plenty of parking. After some shopping, we made our way to down Trafalgar St towards the War Memorial and Nelson Cathedral. The street was full of cafe tables, with lots of people enjoying the sunshine. We decided that climbing the steps had better come first!

Stained glass windows in Nelson Cathedral

Time to join the cafe set for a cold drink. There was a really festive atmosphere at one particular cafe. Patrons as well as the waitresses were wearing brightly coloured necklaces. (Even the men) We decided to ask one of the men about these and were told that it was Mardi Gras Day, today - at least it was in New Orleans. Next thing we were given necklaces as well. Purple beads for justice; green for faith; and gold for power.

We had a look around the Nelson waterfront and visited the Founders Heritage Park which is a Nelson version of MOTAT. It has various restored buildings and local business history including Newmans Coachlines and their big blue buses.

A Bristol freighter sat out in the weather, one of 17 run by SAFE air in the sixties transporting cars and freight across Cook Strait. None are flying in NZ now, this one was open for visitors.

 Looking inside the Bristol Freighter from the cargo doors.

From the other direction.