South Island journey

At top of gondola overlooking Queenstown and Lake Whakatipu

Lake Tekapo on a perfect day

A photo by and for E - Hagley Park in Christchurch

Looking up at the autumn colourings on the hills above Arrowtown

Such great colouring as on this maple tree in Arrowtown - couldn't resist taking the shot with P beneath it!

Another shot overlooking Queenstown from the top of the gondola.

Loving the relaxation of a leisurely trip on the old Earnslaw launch across Lake Whakatipu - enjoying the music from the grand piano all the way there and back.

P looking windswept - at the top of Mt John - where the famous observatory is at Lake Tekapo.

The view out of our bedroom window at Mt Cook!!!


Highlights

We had a great trip beginning and ending in Christchurch. The weather was picture perfect almost all the way. Our car was also a treat. Quite sporty for us!!

The view at Lake Tekapo was amazing. Jade waters so contrasted with the barren surrounding mountains.

Our room at The Hermitage in Mt Cook looked straight out onto the snowy mountains which was astounding in the morning. Enjoyed a touch of luxury here which was such a treat.

The barren majestic mountains in the Mackenzie basin were truely spectacular.

Our motel in Queenstown was perfect- homely and clean - not too ostentatious - and close to town so we could walk each day - uphill- a couple of times. We relaxed: went for a cruise on the Earnslaw across Lake Whakatipu, whilst the grand piano was played the whole way - beautiful; went to the top of the hill in the gondola and enjoyed the vista on a magnificent clear day; drove to Arrowtown and walked along the river bank enjoying the autumn colourings of the trees; unexpectedly bumped into people we knew along the way. It was all a case of just taking our time and trying not to do so much that we became exhausted. Lovely.

From there we travelled back the same route and stayed a night in Geraldine, rather than Lake Takapo, which did not seem to have decent affordable accommodation. Then onto Akaroa - to a waterfront motel. Beautiful view. Lovely place.

From there it was a hop, step and a jump back over the Banks Peninsula to Christchurch.

All in all a lovely getaway.