Queenstown

And now for something completely different. We left the peace and quiet of Milford Sound for the hustle of Queenstown – the adventure capital of New Zealand. And we arrived on St Patricks Day to find everyone out celebrating in the sunshine.

We dumped the camper van and checked into a fabulous hotel where we enjoyed a long shower and a large bed. No more not being able to stretch out !

We woke early the next morning for the first of our Queenstown adventures – a sunrise balloon ride over the surrounding mountains.

Lift Off !!

It was amazing – floating around above 8500ft taking in the stunning scenery. Once again we were blessed with fabulous weather !

On our way to 8500 ft
Up, Up and Away…
Hello !
Balloon View

On landing we were treated to champagne and pastries before returning to the hotel, where in true Hobbit style, we had a second breakfast !

We spent the rest of the day taking in the views over Queenstown by travelling the skyline gondola to the top, followed by an afternoon of leisurely strolling around town and along the shore of Lake Wakatipu, the third largest lake in New Zealand.

View over Queenstown
Lakeside

The following day, after a lengthy lie in – our first since we arrived – we embarked on our second adventure. Hang Gliding !!!

We are smiling !

Once the van took us to the Coronet Peak were we kitted out in very fetching Guantanamo Bay style outfits before being strapped into our hang gliders.

After some practice running, we launched ourselves off the mountain under the expert control of our tandem pilots.

Is it a bird?
Is it a plane?
No it’s Odie and Sue flying in close formation

That evening we enjoyed a fabulous meal in Queenstown to celebrate our amazing bravery (!!) before heading off the next morning to our next destination 🙂 The departure board says it all.. 🙂

2 thoughts on “Queenstown

  1. Talk about epic adventures! Thought the next extreme sport might be bungee jumping! You both look really well and have obviously had an amazing time.
    Mum & Dad
    XX

  2. Breathe taking in more ways than one !! What fantastic experiences.

    After that, as the Airport Departure Board says: ‘Relax’ – your next adventure perhaps?

    John & Dee xxx

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