Many, Many Mountains

Prior to boarding our Auckland-bound plane, we had a few worries about our decision to visit New Zealand in the winter. But being here in the colder climate has, first of all, been fine weather-wise (it has been really good to us) and has ultimately given us these incredibly scenic views of the landscape that couldn't be seen the same in the summer. The rivers are fuller, the trees and grass seem more lush, and... THE SNOWY MOUNTAINS. Mountains make up two-thirds of New Zealand's South Island, and driving around it is instantly easy to believe - there are amazing alpine views in every direction, basically no matter where you are. And seeing these mountains covered in snow, and shrouded in mist or against a clear blue or sunset sky - that alone makes our winter adventure completely worth it.

Eyre Mountains

Humboldt Mountains 

Not sure but they are pretty... and that's part of Queenstown in the foreground 

Southern Alps (aka the Misty Mountains) 

The Remarkables from Queenstown's waterfront

Thomson Mountains from Mavora Lake campsite