Day 30 Timaru and Lake Pukaki

Go to Timaru in the morning to pick up the new camera. Luckily, there is also my favorite supermarket Pak'n'save, where I can redeem the discount coupon for diesel. Already driven 5000 km and only refueled 5 times. The others with small campers that I have met report a consumption of 14 liters from a 50 liter tank for petrol cars. It's funny, they only stand at the gas station. The VW bus needs a maximum of 9 liters of diesel, the TDI always shows the mountains and the tank has 80 liters.

After refueling, continue to Christchurch airport, where I can pick up USB sticks with new music that are waiting for me.

On the way back, another 3 hours straight ahead, I take the scenic flight over the Alps, the so-called Grand Traverse. The pilot tells me that the weather will be perfect. I already know that, the weather report has guided me throughout the journey. Unfortunately, I can't find a spot at the campground in Lake Tekapo at 5 pm. So I drive half an hour to Lake Pukaki for freedom camping. That means using the onboard toilet and no shower, but a bath in the icy cold lake.

I have another beer with new acquaintances, a couple from Washington who have set up a mini tent right by the lake. They invite me to hike the Mueller Hut Route together tomorrow, but unfortunately I have other plans tomorrow. However, we will meet at White Horse Hill tomorrow and they will tell me if it's worth it. A beautiful sunset follows and a very relaxing day comes to an early end. I fall asleep exhausted in my mobile bed