Whistle stop tour of the south

The trouble with New Zealand is that there are just too many amazing places to stop and see. Even with a month to spend here I really need longer.. perhaps another 6-12?!
In an effort to see a little more and in order to be able to make it back to Auckland to catch my flight to Fiji, I needed to move a little quicker...

Queenstown and beyond...

I got organised! I booked my buses and hostels and travelled north...
Queenstown, was a definite stop - although no bungy jumping for me! Instead I took a ride up the Gondola for some spectacular views and then there was just time for a few rides on the Luge! (Sort of Go-Karting fun!) before an evening cruise on the 100 year old TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steam boat.

The following morning saw another early start - one of travels great joys! - it was however a beautiful morning as the clouds caught fire behind the mountains as the sun crept up.

Morning by the lakeside

Bus journeys in New Zealand 

My next stop was the realm of ice and snow - well Glacier country - Franz Josef my home for the night.
The last time I was here I was able to go out and explore the glacier on a half day hike. Things have changed a little in the last 5years as the glacier itself is retreating, a huge chunk of the ice fell away in April 2012 taking with it the trekking companies only foot access to the ice. I walked up to the face to see the difference in size for myself - I was amazed at how small it appeared compared to last time I visited... I took a few photos so I can compare them when I get home, if things continue in this way it will have a huge impact on the town here.

Warning...

Getting smaller?

Another long and slightly less than comfortable day on the bus followed my day at Franz Josef. As the bus wound it's way up New Zealands west coast, we stopped to view Punakaiki or Pancake Rocks as they are more often known.

Just after 7pm I made it to Nelson, my home for a few nights ....and hopefully my base to explore the Abel Tasman National Park.