03/03/2018 - Idyllic Glenorchy

Yesterday we set off towards "Queenstown". On the drive, the nature of New Zealand once again showed how diverse it can be. From snow-capped mountains to endless green meadows with sheep and cow herds, and large lakes with clear water, we were offered a lot. After several photo stops, we reached "Lake Wakatipu", where we took a slightly longer break. The last kilometers to Queenstown were always along the lake. There were frequent opportunities to stop for a photo. When we soon reached Queenstown, we first turned into a ski area. The mountain range "The Remarkables" lives up to its name - it looks really "remarkable". After our car struggled up a few meters in altitude, a beautiful view of the city and its airport opened up. We spent nearly an hour at this magnificent viewpoint before continuing. We still had to do some shopping for the next few days and we hadn't found accommodation for the coming night yet. 
Since the weather was getting better during the day, we decided to bypass Queenstown for now and continue to "Glenorchy". But to get there, we had to drive straight through the city center of Queenstown. During the drive, we got a feeling for how touristy the city really is. The sidewalks and streets were crowded. People were everywhere. But we safely reached the "Glenorchy Road", which, like the "Milford Road", is one of the most beautiful roads in New Zealand. There were great views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. We would like to highlight one stop in particular: We stopped by the roadside, and in front of us, a true postcard motif unfolded! At "Bennett's Bluff Lookout", you have a fantastic view of a long range of mountains that line the blue lake. Simply amazing. 
After another ten minutes, we reached the campground. It is located right on the main road and is part of the "General Store" in Glenorchy. From the camping spot, you have a good view of the neighboring mountains, provided they are not, like for us, mostly obscured by clouds. 
For dinner, we treated ourselves to homemade burgers. While we were preparing and eating them in the kitchen, another rain front passed over us. Sometimes the weather here in New Zealand can drive you crazy. But what did a Kiwi lady once advise us? "Wait five minutes and you will like the weather again." And after just a few minutes, the rain moved away and the sun came out. When Tobi quickly went to the car to get some dish soap, he spotted a large, vibrant rainbow. Each color was clearly visible. One couldn't stop staring. It was breathtaking!

The next morning started with a seven-minute $2 shower. After the rain let up, we started our tour today. We started at "Lake Sylvan". This lake is said to reflect the surrounding forests and mountains like a large mirror, provided the weather conditions allow it. When we reached it after a 30-minute hike, we were slightly disappointed - it was only a brown soup with slight mists on the side to see. Well, you can't plan the weather. So shortly after, we headed back to the car.
We made the next stop at a "Lord of the Rings" filming location. Parts of "Isengard" were filmed in the outskirts of Glenorchy. From our vantage point, we could see a large open area and the mountains behind it, as they appear in the movie. Of course, you can only imagine all of that approximately, as a lot is added on the computer afterwards.
We then drove back to the campground. At lunchtime, we paid a visit to the General Store. There you can buy everyday groceries, specialties, and souvenirs. We browsed around a bit and what do you know? A postcard with a picture of Bennett's Bluff Lookout, which we had visited the day before. Truly a postcard motif. ;)
To end the day, we walked the "Glenorchy Walkway". The small hiking trail led across several bridges to two pools. We came across many black swans. They are typical for New Zealand - we have only seen their white relatives so far in "Invercargill", at the duck pond.
In the evening, the sun fought its way through the thick cloud cover and warmly shone on our skin until sunset.