When I originally booked my ticket to New Zealand I planned on heading back to the Pacific Northwest in the beginning of December but as time went on I extended my stay until Christmas day in hopes of getting twice the presents as well as getting in a few hikes here and there. After getting my hands on a Department of Conservation Seasons Pass to all the huts I was on a mission to see what was out there and if there were lines that would interest me. This post has little to do with riding and everything to do with the stunning scenery.
I hope you enjoy!!
My first mission was heading up Lake Wakatipu towards Glenarchy which some say is the most scenic road in New Zealand, it’s obvious to see why.
Heading into the Routeburn Valley area
Next was a drive out to Fiordland followed by an excursion to Mavora Lakes.
My next hike was up Isthmus peak which gave great views of Lake Wanaka.
As well as Lake Hawea
Not to mention you are in good company.
The next hike was heading into the Mutukituki Valley and staying around the Aspiring Hut.
Liver Pool Hut
And the French Ridge Hut
The next trip was heading to the South Coast and hiking the Hump Ridge trek all the way out to Lake Hauroko.
With the Routeburn being in Great walk status I did a two day loop of the Routeburn/Greenstone which some have called the “Grand Traverse”
My next tramp was a night up on Brest Hill off Lake Hawea.
My next journey was up the Young Valley over to the Siberian and out to Lake Crucible than retracing my steps.
The Packwool Hut
and finally the Rex Simpson Hut in the Tekapo Valley.
It had become blatently obvious that I had just scratched the surface of what was possible on the South Island and the more I thought about it the more I realized I would have to come back for the 2014 season.