From Christchurch we headed for Twizel, a very small mountain town in Mt. Cook National Park. On the road to Twizel, we stopped at Lake Pukaki, an alpine lake.
After first stopping to see the beautiful views of Mt. Cook, we hiked around the area and got a glimpse at the retreating glaciers.
The hike was a few hours long, and the landscapes were breathtaking. The air felt so crisp and fresh up at the higher altitudes. It was exciting to walk across the long extension bridges and see the rushing glacial streams below us.
We stayed in the area for two nights, and then were off to Queenstown. I have never in my life seen a town as beautiful as Queenstown. The town is so picturesque: lodge-style buildings, small streets with cute shops, and all surrounded by the crystal clear water of Lake Wakatipu. Our hostel had great views of the town from the porch, and we made sure to take advantage.
We spent Christmas Eve here, so me and my friend went to mass at an old stone church at the top of a hill in town in the evening.
Christmas Eve day we had off, so me and my friend decided to go kayaking on the lake. We rented out a tandem kayak and had two hours on the water. This was one of my favorite activities of the trip.
Christmas Day, we packed up again and started the long drive to Fox Glacier.
Wow great story and amazing pictures