Saturday 13th March

We have experienced another day of stunning scenery. We first visited Lake Matheson which is noted for its reflections of Mount Tasman (the Fox glacier) and Mount Cook. Due to the ripples on the lake we were unable to see any reflections and the top of Mount Cook was in cloud! We did, however, get some excellent views of Mount Tasman followed by the Fox Glacier from the southerly viewing area (see pics). We then set off for Wanaka which took us partly through jungle and partly along the coast to Haast. The road then took us into the snow capped mountains and over the Haast Pass, which involved going up twisty roads through some superb scenery. When we emerged from the Pass we went through country which was a little similar to the Lake District with huge lakes, formed by glaciers millions of years ago, surrounded by spectacular mountain views (see pic).
We have stopped for the next 2 nights at a motel in Wanaka, which has lovely views out of the lounge window of the lake and mountains beyond (see pic).
Tomorrow we are diverting from our original plan as Ben has the opportunity to have a glider flight – fingers crossed for suitable weather!