26.12.2017 - from Dunedin to Wanaka

After a fantastic breakfast (did we mention that?) where Maja and Birgit were floating in pancake heaven, we continue to Wanaka via Middlemarch, Alexandra, and Queenstown. Unfortunately, out of a somewhat sad necessity, Jana and Maja will fly back to Auckland this evening.

But first, we said a very warm and somewhat nostalgic goodbye to Ann, Jurgen, and Ilanna, because meeting such people is extraordinary. Otherwise, it would be a long drive. Although it is just over 400 kilometers, it is more challenging due to the multiple serpentine roads. We have chosen a route with a scenic view because we have plenty of time. Shortly before Queenstown, there is the former gold mining town of Arrowtown, where a shearer found gold for the first time in 1862. Quickly, a few farms turned into a town of 1,500 inhabitants and at the height of the decade-long gold rush, there were 7,000. Today, the now beautifully renovated houses are mainly used for tourist visits by shops, boutiques, and cafes.

After a short stroll and a meal in Queenstown, it was time to say goodbye at the airport: quick hugs, bye, done. Better short and painless. It's hard to believe that just a week ago, we picked them up here. It was incredible how quickly time flew by. It was a beautiful, incredibly eventful, and intense time for everyone. Truly very special!

Just one hour to Wanaka. Christine is welcoming us here because we have rented a garden house from her. Small, plush, but lovely. Luckily, the next few days are supposed to be very sunny. Otherwise, it would be really tight here. But we are also very spoiled by our last accommodation.