Lake Tekapo

We left Queenstown on Friday morning heading to Lake Tekapo. However, this was without the majority of our Kiwi crew which was heartbreaking. Only us ugly girls, Louise and myself, and Tom our very own grizzly bear remained. Perhaps we should clarify the nickname ugly girls quickly. It stems from being with Ladina in Cape Town who told us that her Strawberry Daiquiri was "so ugly" because it tasted horrible. This led to us saying that everything was so ugly, including ourselves and so it became a saying which has stuck with us through our travels! 

Once again, the drive through the South Island was exquisite. We drove through the mountainous Waitaki district, where there were beautiful mountains on either side of the road which just meandered through them as far as the eye could see. 

After stopping for picnic supplies at a small village we drove to the aqua blue Lake Pukaki for a lovely lunch in the sunshine, watching the water glisten with its reflection.  

Before we went to the holiday resort at Lake Tekapo we visited the small church perched at the edge of the lake. It was a spectacular setting and the view from the altar was absolutely stunning. 

Our small but cosy dorm room was situated in a lodge with a large communal kitchen, lounge area and views over the lake. 

Settling in didn't take long and we soon ended up exploring the quiet, sleepy resort. At reception we came across Thea, the wonderful dog below, who permanently had her tounge stuck out. We petted her for a bit before heading to the lake for yet another cold swim and some time in the sun. 

The lake was beautiful but after swimming and jumping off the platform a couple of times I was feeling pretty cold. Louise and I headed to the hot pools just down the road and spent the next hour and a half wallowing in the 38C and 40C water whilst admiring the views. We eventually tore ourselves out of them to try the sauna and steam room.

Lounging around in the pools was the perfect way to relax and unwind before heading back to the lodge just before sunset. We had a peaceful evening cooking dinner, FaceTiming family and watching the Hunger Games in a group on the main television before bed. 

Until next time. 

A x