Between the Lakes

Saturday 1 February

Leaving the peace and beauty of Cameron Flats for the metropolis of Wānaka (decide for yourself on the pronunciation - but don’t take guidance from John Bishop!)

After a chat with our neighbours at the DoC site who kindly moved to let us and our large Snowy River squeeze out, we set off towards the lakes - stopping at Makarora country store which had previously been a garage. The original owner used to collect old car registration plates, and then it became a thing and visitors to the store would send in plates from all over the world! I was quite taken with their motto about love and butter and also the fact that NZ was almost impossible to see on the globe, so hopefully Trump and his cronies won't be focussing our way any time soon!

We proceeded south and then east towards our destination, pausing at various view points overlooking the magnificent Lakes Wānaka & Hāwea, making notes about where we’d like to stop & stay next time.

We followed the shore of Lake Wānaka for about 15-20km, marvelling at the size of it - the fourth largest lake in Aotearoa.

Then the road hung a left and climbed up to The Neck - the summit between Lakes Wānaka & Hāwea and we were awestruck by the view of this stunning piece of water.

Following the shores of Lake Hawea we wound our way south - pausing to oooh and aahhh along the way!

We pottered in town doing caravan stuff, laundry & swimming then headed out to Mountain Spirit in the back of beyond but technically in Hāwea Flat.

We were greeted by Randall, a lovely American guy from New Hampshire, SLC & Washington State who owns the land and then endured the longest set up as the field was very wonky donkey!

Once settled we changed and whizzed back to Lake Hāwea for a swim. I wimped out and just enjoyed the beauty of the place but Louis had a wee dip. We’ll be back!

Braved the midges and mozzies for cheese & crackers outside Banjo and watched a spectacular sunset. Wow!