Journey with Christina

As we headed back north again along the eastern side of the South Island the views became no less stunning. We passed through the dry Mackenzie Basin which is a stark contrast from the wet west coast on the other side of those mountains.

Mackenzie Basin and random lake along the drive selling amazing fresh farmed salmon.

After yet another gorgeous drive we ended at Lake Tekapo, our destination for the evening, famous for its star gazing. I did a light uphill hike up to the top of Mount John where I had amazing views of the entire lake although I did almost get blow over the side with the strong winds. After a soak in some outdoor scenic hot pools with the girls. The evening ending with dinner (made by Jon) in the lodge sharing wine with our new friends. It would have been a perfect day except for the bottle of expensive Rippon wine that broke in my backpack. I guess I will just have to smell like a wino the rest of the trip.

View of Lake Tekapo from the top of Mount John and a view of the hot pools.

Where we stayed nights 17, Lake Tekapo, we had a 4-bed dorm with an for about $30 a night ($60 total) right on the lake. The property was well situated with all kinds of accommodations from dorms to cabins and campsites. Our area had a very large living area with picture windows out to the lake and a TV where we all had a movie night. There was also a large well stocked kitchen, laundry, and outside BBQ’s and picnic tables. I skipped the movie and drank an entire bottle of wine myself so I did not have another broken bottle experience.

View of our lodge from the outside and inside.

Our last few days were spent in Christchurch, a small city still recovering from 2 devastating earthquakes in the past several years. They have been creative by setting up makeshift shops and restaurants in storage containers which have now become part of the city’s vibe. There was also a food truck area where we ate twice because the food was so amazing! We spent our days lazily exploring the city and its gardens and thoroughly explored the excellent Canterbury Museum.

The saddest part was that we were now leaving all the amazing new friends we met on our Kiwi Experience tour. We will miss you but it’s not goodbye forever!

Destruction from the earthquake and white chair memorial representing one chair for each person that died.

Beautiful gardens.

Where we stayed nights 18-20, Christchurch YMCA, we had a spacious) 3-bed dorm (with no bunkbeds) for about $40 a night ($80 total) located across the gardens. We were lucky enough to have the room to ourselves for two of the three nights. The property was brand new and had a nice kitchen, living rooms on each floor and an attached gym which Jon was thrilled about.