Hokitika & Timaru

We made it to the coastal town of Hokitika at nightfall, absolutley wrecked after the glacier hike. We found a really cosy hostel called Birdsong, and after a warm welcome there we drove down the road to a glow worm dell for a look. We spent a few minutes there and headed back, chatting to a few people for a while before hitting the leaba.

Next morning we took a quick look around the town itself. It is famous for its Jade production, so Sarah got her birthday present there! The plan was to hit the road and get to Timaru to meet Niamh, Debbie and Ilena there later that night. We were very excited to catch up and made good time there. The drive across Arthurs Pass and the Southern Alps is amazing, and takes in some of the nicest scenery in the country.

We caught up with the girls that evening, and after a trip to the supermarket to pick up supplies we settled into Ilena´s house and started to catch up over a few beers. Niamh and Debbie were pretty tired after the trip, so they slept for a few hours before we all hit the town for the night.

Timaru is a small town, there doesnt really seem to be a hell of a lot going on to be honest. We drank in the Sail and Anchor for a few hours, and called into a kebab shop en route home! The next day we farted around the house before heading to a bbq at a friend of Ilenas for a house warming. We turned up with a lot of booze, and pretty much sat in a corner consuming it for the first few hours. There were a few interesting characters in attendance, and it wasnt long before large middle aged ladies and gents were practising scrummaging techniques on each other in the living room. Nice.

Again to the Sail and Anchor where it was a fair bit more lively. Silly dancing with silly people dressed up for the night.

Next morning we all piled into the car for the hour or so journey to Lake Tekapo. First stop a beautiful stone chapel that looks out onto the lake. The colour of the lake is surreal. It is a bright almost flourescent blue, and it contrasts wildly with the surrounding landcape. Then up to the Mt John Observatory for spectacular views of the region (including Mt Cook in the distance). Undoubtedly The highlight of the day were the hot baths by the lakeside. We spent about 2 hours soaking between the three large outdoor baths and an indoor sauna and plunge pool. Back to Timaru and a slap up Indian meal before turning in for the evening.