22-28th Feb: Day 15 to 21:Queenstown to Wanaka (MOTUTAPU TRACK) Total 348km

Through walker, Clode, from Switzerland!

 Wow - serendipity! I met Clode on the trail in Waitomo when i was there at Christmas with family. She had been walking for 5 weeks I was still planning my adventure. We agreed to look out for each other but was astonished to run into her on the trail to Macetown. We yarned for almost an hour! Very cool.






 

The Arrow River

 Fascinating walking through the history of this area with traces of gold mining activity all around. Lots of rivers crossings too.

Old Pack trail heading up Roses Saddle

 

Gentians

What a contrast between high tops & farmed valley

Can you see the hut? (pretty much dead centre of the pic)

Highland Creek Hut

 Much of this area has been sold to overseas owners (Shania Twain) & the trade off was creating the Motutapu track including building 3 new huts - they are crisp and clean & have great decks for soaking up the sun. Which we did with gusto til 7.30pm at Highland Creek.

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 Track conditions varied from rugged and steep to more mellow as i headed down to Fernburn Hut.

Copper butterfly

Lyn & Vern (friends from home!)

Calm Lake Wanaka - looking back up the Motutapu valley

 copious skinks entertained me as I trundled downwards but only this copper butterfly lingered for a photo.
A delight to meet Lyn & Vern at Fernnburn Hut & have the hut to ourselves that night.
Lyn & Vern live a few kms from home! They ferried me & my gear all about as well as providing great company & encouragement. Thanks guys!

Best cafe in Wanaka!

The Mighty Clutha River

Wild Lake Hawea!