“A panoramic glacial amphitheater”

As usual, we got an early start and drove out along the southern edge of Lake Wanaka.

I had heard of the Wanaka Willow and Fred was eager to take photos of the Lake in the morning light. We found the willow with no problem, but mostly because other photographers were huddled around it. Undaunted, Fred took wonderful pictures of the lake, tree, and photographers.

We headed onward to Motukituki Valley and Rob Roy Glacier beyond. It’s an hour drive from Wanaka, the last half is teeth-chattering rough though. We’ve driven many unsealed roads in New Zealand, but this was something else once you get beyond the Treble Cone turnoff. The gravel is much “chunkier” and the base is like a washboard! We had been given the advice that faster is better (it smooths out the washboard) and found that to be true.

When we arrived at the trailhead, the main lot was pretty full. But hiking the trail, there was only one family with kids that we saw on the way up. At the glacier, there were only 10-12 others. That changed drastically on the way down. There were dozens of folks heading up and we speculated that the shuttle had let them off.

The hike went through pastures in the beginning, creating a bit of an obstacle course. Once across the swingbridge, you hug a mountain along the river. It was a bit strenuous in places, but the payoff was well worth it! There must have been a dozen waterfalls on the rockface below the glacier. We had lunch, mesmerized by the sights and sounds. Both Fred and I took lots of pictures.

These two Monoliths stand guard at the entrance to the Treble Cone Ski area. I’ve not been able to find any information regarding their significance. Perhaps everyone speeds by on their way up the mountain and don’t even notice them.

When we headed back to Wanaka, the wind had really picked up. We stopped at a park marked, “Mount Aspiring View”, but it was so windy we didn’t stay long. So we headed back to Peak SportChalet for a well-deserved glass of wine.

The Adventure Continues>>>