Let The Adventure Begin!

 

Nobody warned me!  As we flew into Queenstown I gazed out my window and watched the hillsides coming closer and closer until it was almost frightening to look at.

The approach to the airport here is down a valley with high hills on either side and our big plane seemed to stretch right across it. 

I relaxed when I remembered that Air New Zealand frequently flies into here so the pilots would know what they were doing – at least, I hoped they did!

It did not take very long to pick up our Avis Budget rental car.  We had booked a small Toyota Corolla but instead drove away in a 2.4L 4WD Nissan X-Trail wagon – we had been upgraded as this vehicle needed to be returned to Christchurch and that was where we were headed.

No complaints from us!

After a quick look around busy Queenstown, we headed south to Te Anau.  We made a few stops during the two hours of driving, one being at the Red Tussock Conservation Area.

This area became protected in 2010 after the Government responded to those protesting against proposed mining activities.  Apart from the tussock it is also home to several threatened bird species, including the NZ Falcon, kaka and yellowhead.

The Wilderness Scientific Scenic Reserve boasted a viewing platform to look out over ancient bog pines.

These very slow-growing dwarf conifers have the ability to survive the extreme conditions often experienced in this region.  The tallest shrubs are estimated to be several hundreds of years old.

Shortly before reaching Te Anau we visited a lookout point that had been established by the local Lions Club.  From here we had an expansive early evening view over Lake Te Anau and the town itself.

We were welcomed to the Alpine View Motel by a friendly couple – John and his mother Tilly.  The couple sitting in their front garden didn’t bear any likeness to them at all!

Our motel unit was equipped with everything needed, was spotlessly clean, and very quiet. 

It was a great place to fall asleep at the end of our first day.

Margaret 😊