Franz Josef to Wanaka & Queenstown

Long straight roads across the valleys, interrupted by plenty of single lane suspension bridges, along with curvaceous mountain passes led us briefly back to the coast at Bruce Bay.  A tiny beach side kiosk was doing a roaring trade with many sorts of coffee and freshly made homemade cakes and biscuits  (made by local villagers). 

We turned inland heading south-east – the mountains and scenery were just stunning – all helped by brilliant weather.  Towns which look quite big on the map, are tiny – 300 inhabitants and most of those live on distant farmsteads!  Having negotiated yet another very windy mountain pass, we arrived at the blue waters of Lake Wanaka.  More marvellous views as we drove the length of the valley beside this 26 mile lake, to the town of Wanaka – population just over 12,000.  A bustling town with lots of cafes and restaurants, plenty of boating activities and a craft market. 

A 25 minute speedboat trip down the lake (320 metres deep!)  took us to Mou Waho (The Outer Island) – an uninhabited island, where our tour guide led us up a challenging climb of 178 metres to the summit for more fantastic views.  The native bush on this island was fascinating – did you know there is a Manuka tree AND a Kanuka tree?  Manuka honey, of course, is known for its healing properties, whereas Kanuka honey is “just good honey” according to our guide!  A mountain top lake (rain-filled) called Arethusa Pool made for some good photos, before we began our descent (always worse on the knees than the ascent!)  back to the boat. 

Queenstown:  Driving south from Wanaka, took us through Cardrona where we enjoyed coffee at an ancient hotel (1860’s gold rush)  before heading up and over the Crown Range Mountains, and down to Queenstown – population 24,000.

Nestled beside Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is a VERY busy tourist destination – all sorts of lake activities area on offer.  Local ski resorts keep the town busy through the winter as well. A very long beach keeps the sunbathers happy  – very few of them venture into the chilly glacial waters.  Queenstown gardens provide lots of walks under tall trees, interspersed with beautiful flower beds and fountains – yes, more roses to keep me happy! 

Huge excitement today, as we enjoyed a Jet Boat ride across the lake, and up a winding river into the wilderness. Absolutely thrilling to skim across the water at high speed,  whizzing around corners and then squeal with delight at the odd 360 degree turn on the spot – showering all of us with water!  The beautiful blue skies, and snow covered mountains made the photos spectacular.  A real charge of adrenalin, with the bonus of being in such an idyllic place.     

We move on tomorrow to Fiordland – more later . . . .