Oh, Just More Mountains

The view from our Lake Wanaka campsite is insane. Favorite place we have planted ourselves so far.

Lakeside campsite views of Mt. Aspiring National Park

View from Iron Mountain summit hike

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

Milford Sound

Unfortunately we visited Milford Sound on a particularly misty day but still managed to appreciate its unique beauty. The road to Milford is a very special drive, with literally hundreds of waterfalls plummeting from towering mountains right beside the car. There are also hundreds of Kea parrots - the most curious, fearless bird ever. They swarmed the camper van anytime we stopped which was a bit alarming but ultimately harmless.

Milford Sound & Mitre Peak

One new Kea parrot friend

Can you see all the waterfalls thru the mist?