Hooker Valley

This time we are not woken up by the weather, but by our internal clock. Looking out of the camper window, there is a slight disappointment: the mountains that were bathed in sunshine yesterday are now barely visible through the fog. Should we postpone the hike? Absolutely not. Not many people are as optimistic as we are. That's why we practically have the trails in the Hooker Valley all to ourselves. There are four of us hiking today. We wander through a landscape that strongly reminds us of the 'Lord of the Rings' movies, across suspension bridges and up to a mountain lake. We have read that Mount Cook is supposed to be particularly visible here. However, upon our arrival, the mountain lives up to its name: 'Aoraki - the one who pierces the clouds'. Most of the mountain is covered in fog and we doubt if we will get to see the mountain in all its glory today. But the 10 minutes of patience that we muster pay off. We do get to see it after all.

After the hike, we say goodbye to Laura and Lucas and head to Queenstown. The three-hour drive shows us the incredible diversity that characterizes New Zealand. We leave the mountains and glaciers, drive past blue lakes, cross desert-like landscapes that resemble the American West and pass through lush green sections with small rivers.

Upon arriving in Queenstown, we look for a campground that has both a shower and internet access, as well as a washing machine. It may cost a bit more, but we will treat ourselves once a week J

Tomorrow we will continue towards the '8th Wonder of the World': Milford Sound.