|
Tamie Poepping New Zealand |
South Island of New Zealand
Kaikoura Range
After taking the ferry Cook Strait from Wellington on the North Island to Picton on the South Island, we headed down the east coast to Christchurch, taking in the beautiful Kaikoura mountain ranges.
Mt Cook National Park
The next day, we drove southwest to the Mt Cook National Park for some more trekking and awesome mountain views.
Glacial Lakes
The torquoise glacial lakes really reminded me of the Rocky Mountains.
Milford Sound
After driving to Queenstown, we caught a bus to Milford Sound, where we took a boat cruise of the sound, and then caught the bus back to the starting point of our 3-day trek along the Routeburn Track.
At Milford Sound, I enjoyed the beautiful scenery with impressive waterfalls, a seal colony, and some playful dolphins jumping alongside our boat (who were too quick for my camera).
Routeburn Track- Mackenzie Lake and Hut
On our rainy trek across the Routeburn Track, we had an 8 hour trek on the second day. We were very grateful for the ranger's fire that greeted us at our mid-day stop at the Mackenzie Hut.
Routeburn Track - Waterfalls
On the upside, all of the rain made for some more spectacular waterfalls.
Queenstown
Back in Queenstown, we took the cable car up the mountain and enjoyed a cold beer and beautiful view.
Lake Hawea
Enroute to the central west coast, we stumbled upon Lake Hawea so we stopped for an early lunch in order to enjoy the view for longer.
Fox Glacier
We walked out to the Fox Glacier, before driving on to stay at the town of Franz Josef Glacier.
Arthur's Pass
Another early morning start with the long drive back to Christchurch ahead of us. We stopped in Hokitika, known for its jewellery shops, especially jade, where I indulged in some purchases. It was then on to Arthur's Pass for a couple of quick hikes, before finishing in Christchurch.
Christchurch
We completed our central circuit of the south island by arriving back in Christchurch. Enjoyed a lazy evening and following morning before flying out to Sydney in the afternoon. Loved the rugged Southern Alps, the volcanoes, and the wonderful people. Good bye New Zealand and Hello Australia.
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
