Off the plane and into a Ford Fiesta, the party on wheels... And the best Ford I've ever driven.
Picked up our music listening selection," some snacks and supplies"
Within hours we arrive in Waitomo and sign up for a swimming / caving tour 60m under the surface of the Earth... Blackwater Rafting. Glow worms are really maggots.
We spend the night in Rotorua, passing out abruptly once checked into a hostel.
The next morning we purchase our sleeping accommodations for the rest of the trip, a cozy 3 person tent, the Promo 3!
We tour more of the North Island, getting a true taste of Middle Earth.
We arrive in Wellington, a beautiful city on the water, but unfortunately with no time to spare. We board the ferry, and enjoy the 3 hour ride to Picton in the South Island.
The South Island is literally made up of several National Parks. Each with their own ecological environment, coastline, jungle, desert, and mountainous glaciers; all within only hours of each other.
Enjoyed camping on a deserted beach, falling asleep to crashing waves.
From the western shore line to the East, up and over Haast Pass. Pushing the limits of the Fiesta's offroading capabilities (4 in. Clearance) to find the perfect camp site on a dried up river bed, reminiscent of all those Alaska trips.
Eating a delicious meal of Chef Boyardee-like spaghetti, tuna, and some crackers... Washing it all down with a delicious Ranfurly beer.
March 18
12:30. Arrive in Queenstown, bungy capitol of the world.
12:35 Inquire about cost and times for bungy jumping
12:50 Signing the waiver form to jump from the Nevis Highwire, 134m high.
5:10 Falling to the Earth with a smile on my face the whole way.
7:30 Having a celebratory beer back in Queenstown.
Drive to Mt. Cook National Park. Hike 13k alongside the Tasman glacier. Spend the night at the Ball Hut Shelter admiring the amazing views; and getting to know the Kea's (New Zealand's 2nd most popular bird).
Drive into Christ Church, enjoy the night out.
Return the car, good as new... Fly back to Auckland... For 11 hours.
Get back on the plane, destination Sydney, Australia!
(1:07 till we land)
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