13. Christchurch to Mt. Cook

The first 2 hours of our 4 hour drive from east-coastal Christchurch heading due west gave us the rare experience of tedious flat farmland. I'm posting this a little late - we've now been through much of our journey through South Island, and I have to say when it comes to mountains & lakes, this country has some of the most spectacular landscapes I've seen. Part of the joy of it is how remote, uninhabited and even inaccessible these mountains are. We are currently in the Autumn shoulder season here, so tourism levels are moderate to low as well. Heading to NZ? I highly recommend April travel.

About halfway through our drive, we eventually came upon the glacially formed lakes Tekapo and Pukaki. Both lakes are known for their stunning turquoise colored waters, largely attributed to their glacial tributaries. Tekapo, at 32 sq miles, is a source of hydropower for the area. Situated on the shore is the Church of the Good Shepherd, which, built in 1935, is one of the most photographed churches in NZ. Needless to say, a very popular tourist stop!

The weather became a bit sketchy as we passed the lakes and started approaching Mt. Cook. A few pix from the road attached here.Read more