Wanaka and Lake Tekapo

Sunday, February 16, 2020

I spent the last four nights in Wanaka, a super beautiful, peaceful city that has many bars and restaurants by the lake and offers many activities such as hiking, mountain biking, or kayaking (which I did all of, of course :D). Because I liked the city so much and felt immediately comfortable (the bakpaka hostel was amazing too!), I extended my planned 2 nights to 4.

The next stop is planned at Lake Tekapo and since public transportation is very limited and I have a pass for the Intercity bus, I rely on it. The only problem is that all the seats on the bus for the trip from Wanaka to Tekapo were already taken. What do I do now? I tried to see if I could book a partial trip, which eventually worked. And the other way? Hitchhike! I had no other choice.

So this morning, I got up early, walked 30 minutes to a road where passing cars would surely go in the right direction, and hoped that someone would pick me up and I would arrive in time at the place where the bus would pick me up.

Since it was morning, unfortunately, there weren't many cars on the road. One car after another drove past me until one stopped 5 meters behind me and drove exactly to the desired place. I was really happy and got in the car with the couple.

The two were about 40 years old and super nice. They are from South Africa and immigrated to New Zealand, Christchurch, 5 years ago. We talked a lot during the ride and then it turned out that they were even driving past Lake Tekapo and could take me there. Jackpot!!! Nothing better could have happened to me!

After many helpful tips for New Zealand and an exchange about traveling and Moscato wine, we quickly arrived in Tekapo. The two got out with me and asked if I would like to have a coffee with them. I don't drink coffee in Germany, but here they have the "Flat White", which tastes really good, so I gratefully accepted the offer. So we had a drink and some food together. They invited me and did not want to accept any money from me for the food and the ride. They were so generous and helpful and I was and still am so happy and grateful for that.

I also want to be as warm-hearted and generous as this couple, because through small gestures alone, you can make the world a better place and make people happy. It's not just about the direct giving and receiving of things. By giving, you receive gratitude. I think that by only "taking" I will maybe only give in a next situation and also be very happy about it.

It's not for nothing that there is the saying "What goes around comes around," or what I read now, "Do good and good will come to you."

Following the couple's advice, I immediately booked vouchers at the hostel on certain websites for the hot pools in Tekapo and a stargazing tour, which can be bought on the internet for a fairly cheap price. Here at Lake Tekapo, you are supposed to see the stars most beautifully. I'm already very excited.

Unfortunately, I noticed that I forgot to return the key from the last hostel and will now send it back by mail.