Wanaka and the mountains

We drive through glacial gorges close to our train to nowhere to Wanaka. You don't have to travel far in New Zealand to experience completely different landscapes. We drove through a hydroelectric power station dam that seems to be kilometers long flanked by sheer cliffs and no vegetation.

Wanaka is close to Queenstown airport. As we get closer to Wanaka we see the snow cap mountains. Wanaka is where Kiwis go for holidays rather than Queenstown. It's school holidays, the place is full of families enjoying the many activities available

The hotel - a ski lodge has just seven rooms. There is a fully equipped large kitchen we buy supplies for breakfast and beer for Bob. The kitchen has large tables as you would expect in a ski lodge and outside. Our room also has a small deck with two good chairs and a table overlooking the same garden. The garden has a small water feature, which the birds love, a very pleasant outlook.

Our time on the ship had been so hectic. It was nice to have the opportunity to really unwind. It is surprising how tiring it can be just seeing and doing what we have experienced and that's without the early morning zodiac rides. Downtime before we get home is much appreciated. We walk and relax before heading home.

The lake is so blue and inviting but not for swimming, it's cold. There is a Sunday market and I buy some lovely paua shell earrings and necklace. A nice way to finish the trip.Read more