28.11.18 Wanaka - Manipuri

Today we started our day as we are used to from home. Patrick went for a slightly longer jog up a hill in Wanaka, and I ran 12 km along the shore of Lake Wanaka, all on the Walkway. After another delicious breakfast, we continued to Queenstown. The adventure capital of New Zealand. We read in the travel guide about a new mountain pass road, but it seemed a bit risky with the camper, especially since there was a remark in that direction in the guidebook. So we decided to take the detour via the main road, or so we thought. We entered Queenstown in the GPS and off we went. The route was beautiful with some uphill sections, and suddenly we were at the summit of the new mountain pass road. Oops, maybe we should also check which way the GPS suggests. Nevertheless, we enjoyed the drive with blooming shrubs, and once again, my driver is doing a fantastic job!!! Before reaching Queenstown, we took a side trip to Kawarau Bridge. This is where bungee jumping was practically invented. The viewing platform on the bridge is almost bigger than the bungee jumping platform. But the atmosphere is really cool. In Queenstown, we strolled along the lake promenade of Lake Wakatipu, enjoyed the hustle and bustle of the people, the sun, the lake with the mountains, and we indulged in a delicious cappuccino with New Zealand chocolates. Mmmmm

Before continuing our journey, we want to inquire at the tourist office about tours in Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound. Queenstown is the gateway to these places, despite a two-hour drive. At the tourist information, we booked a boat trip to Doubtful Sound for tomorrow with Sebastian, a friendly German who enjoys speaking German with us.

But first, let's keep going. We continue the scenic drive along Lake Wakatipu. Along the way, we pass turnoffs to ski resorts, enjoy the beautiful view of the lake and mountains, and stop at a nice viewpoint. We barbecue sausages for hotdogs.

In the late afternoon, we arrive in Manapouri. First, we check into the campsite, and then we explore the little village, including Pearl Harbor, where our boat tour will start tomorrow. After a short hour-long walk along the lake, we treat ourselves to a delicious iced coffee at a small restaurant. They have never made it before, but they gladly accept our instructions.

We enjoy the evening at the campsite, just in time to have dinner outside before the thunderstorm starts. And once again, a beautiful day of vacation comes to an end.