Chapter V - Wanaka × Treble Cone

After Mt. Cook, we continue on to Wanaka via the Levis Pass. Even late in the evening, the town feels lively upon arrival, with many people gathering in bars and pubs.

On a clear night, you can already see the white peaks of the surrounding mountains from the overnight spot. Upon closer inspection, you can make out the lights of the groomers as they prepare the 'Treble Cone' ski resort for its final run of the season.

Today, TC is hosting its big Closing Day. Skiers and snowboarders from the area gather in Wanaka to bid farewell to a successful winter season. Everyone is dressed in costumes like during Carnival, and of course, there is no shortage of beer. Planned activities include a fun race and a big après-ski party in the evening.

The TC ski resort itself is located about 20 minutes from Wanaka, and a long gravel road leads to the large parking lot at the base station. Treble Cone is one of the biggest and most modern ski resorts in New Zealand, with unique terrain below the three 'Cones' - perfect for freeride runs in the deep winter. However, we were experiencing more spring-like conditions, so off-piste skiing was no longer possible on the last day. Nevertheless, the groomed slopes were fun and well-maintained. Since most winter sports enthusiasts were gathered around the base station area in the evening, we had the rest of the ski resort almost exclusively to ourselves. The view throughout the entire ski area, no matter which slope or lift, is simply breathtaking as you always have Lake Wanaka in the background. It was an unforgettable day of skiing with many fun moments and a crowning après-ski party on the mountain.

The next day, we go for a little hike around 'Crystal Lake' and its summit, which offers a beautiful view over Lake Wanaka - although it is not quite as good as the view from the ski resort. From there, you can also take in the impressive sight of the rest of the Southern Alps. Most of the mountains are still covered in snow, and the heli-skiing season is still in full swing. After about 3 hours, the circular path leads back to the parking lot from the viewpoint. In the afternoon, we return to Wanaka itself, stroll along the lake, and enjoy the good atmosphere in the town. It is definitely summer down here, and the campervans flock to Wanaka in great numbers.

For sunset, we briefly visit the neighboring Lake Hawea, which is not as big but definitely worth a visit with its majestic mountain scenery! The town itself is not particularly large, with only a few inhabitants who probably want to escape the tourist hustle and bustle of Wanaka, where the population and property prices are currently rising the fastest on the entire South Island - so to speak, the Munich of New Zealand.

The next day, we will once again fulfill the serious duties of a backpacker. This includes, of course, recharging all electronic devices, surfing the free WiFi, doing laundry, taking showers, and going shopping. The library becomes a very useful place and a good friend, just like the Recreation Center with its free hot showers. Time flies by quickly, and in the evening, we go for a beer in the pub.

The next day, we'll be moving on in the evening to the next ski resort on the list, Cardrona. Before departure, we enjoy some more time by the lake, savoring the slowly arriving summer before returning to winter. At the moment, it really feels like summer down by the lakes, but a persistent winter persists just a few meters higher - a phenomenon of this magnitude that was previously unknown to me.