Standing in line in immigration we met some people from Alaska who are good friends of a couple we traveled with in New Zealand.
The Raddison here is a big family resort. We found the adult onlyBaca lagi
We woke up to disastrous news for our fellow travelers. Auckland airport was closed due to torrential rains. We on the other hand had a pleasant morning walking around Christchurch. Then to theBaca lagi
All AM in the van. Stopped at interesting rock formations and learned about the fault line we drove along.
Nice seafood lunch at the beach in Christchurch then a tour of the Botanical Gardens andBaca lagi
The Lodge and working farm are owned by the same family as the last place. We had a tour of the sheep farm. Watching the dogs work, shearing, and why Marino wool is the BEST IN THE WORLD.
A hike up the mountain to a wonderful waterfall. Of course this is the only time in the trip so far with significant rain. Came back to the lodge through Arthur's Pass.
Kayak trip on Lake Pearson. Then weeding invasive pine trees. Learned about braided rivers. And of course looking for birds.
Stopped to view the glacier along the drive. Pretty far away.
A long day of driving and we climbed up to the mountains. Not as much snow as I expected here. A big day planned for tomorrow.
Sotopped in the AM to see the Kiwi hatching center. All but extinct due to invasive stoats and possum (the fuzzy Aussie kind) and Tuatara Lizards, also endangered.