From the one lane bridges on the windy mountain roads to the rocky coastline, the snow capped peaks to the dense beech forests, and the rugged hiking trails to the gushing waterfalls – New Zealand is one of the most scenic countries we have set foot in. The overwhelming beauty is topped with a laid back vibe of the South Island that we had the joy to explore for 15 Days over winter break.
We couldn’t arrive quick enough and upon our touch down we picked up our car, fondly named Bluebird (A Nissan Bluebird), made a quick stop at the grocery store, and drove 5 hours north to Nelson where our friends Turtle and Pete live. We arrived just as the southern hemisphere summer sun set at 9:45 pm and were ecstatic to get horizontal after the meager sleep on the flights 13 hours of flying.
Day 2 – We woke up to the most beautiful songs of birds unlike anyplace else we’ve visited. A warm welcome from our friends and we immediately went for a hike to explore the steep property they call home. We hiked at cable bay and got awesome views of the Nelson coastline. We had a reservation at a campsite in the Nelson lakes area and forfeited it for the opportunity to spend more time together and enjoy a festive Christmas Eve party with Turtle’s friends – A decision well made as we mingled and enjoyed the holiday cheer. We knew the next day we were going to embark on a whirlwind tour of exploring and hiking but didn’t know how much fun would ensue.
Day 3- We headed to Nelson lakes national park where we trail ran up Mt Roberts before setting out to the west coast and hiking Punakaki Pancake Rocks and blowholes to see the oceans fury at high tide. We camped at a DOC (Department of Conservation) site just south of Hokatika and awoke to the towering snow covered southern alps, with a fresh dusting of snow after the “little bit” of rain on Christmas.
Day 4-
Walked the streets of hokatika then went for a run to Franz Joseph glacier. Continued to Lake Matheson for another run and camped at Gillespies beach. Watched the waves pound the shoreline.
Day 5- Started with jumping from a plane at 13,000 feet over the alps and Fox Glacier! Continued driving south to begin Copland Track. Hiked 18k to welcome flat and camped in gorgeous mountain cirque with hot springs.
Day 6- Hiked back out in 4 hrs after quick dip in hot springs. Drove to small town of Wanaka and ate a meal, then finished day entering the Matukituki valley at sunset. MUST SEE!
Day 7- Trail run up cascade saddle and Rob Roy glacier. Drove to Albert town campground after Thai curry and dip in Lake Wanaka.
Day 8- Hiked up Queenstown hill and rode the luge cars. Scored last minute campsite on Kepler Track over New Years so drove to Cascade Creek Campground (DOC site) on Milford road for rainy evening.
Day 9- Gushing waterfalls on way to Milford Sound before heading back to Te Anau to begin Kepler from Rainbow Ridge to Brod bay campground.
Day 10- Clouds broke and incredible views from Mt Luxemore. Descended to Iris Burn Campground to swat sandflies. Hiked to caves and waterfall.
Day 11- Finished Kepler, swam in Queenstown and relaxed at Lake Sylvan Campground near the start of the Routeburn trek.
Day 12- Trail run to Harris Saddle on the Routeburn. Drove through Glenorchy to Mt cook. Hiked the hooker valley trek during sunset.
Day 13- Early morning start to the majestic mueller hut. Drove to peel forest in the afternoon.
Day 14- Hiked amongst the old growth trees and entered the big city of Christchurch. Camped at Godley Head outside the city and experienced the howling winds.
Day 15- Drove to Hanmer Springs hot baths for a relaxing soak. Camped at north south holiday park near the airport for a sentimental reflection on this epic adventure. <3
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