We got the 730am bus out of Christchurch and it wasn't until our first 'comfort break' that we were told there wouldn't be any passengers going to my Cook that day as the roads were closed due to snow. We had two options: carry on to Queenstown or turn back and go to Christchurch. We'd heard fab things about Queenstown from friends so decided that was probably going to be the best option. The only problem was Friday night was the opening night of 'Queenstown winter festival' we struggled to find a room but eventually found a private 2 bed in one of the hostels. This meant we were also excited for our good night of sleep!
Views from the bus
Lakes and misty mountains
Stil tons of green
Chillier than we'd experienced before
With some cool photostops along the way
The journey was 11 hours, the longest we've done, it didn't feel like t though because of the spectacular views out the window. The sun was beaming over the snow capped mountains and lakes appeared flowing into dams and rivers. Definitely worth a bus fare!!
We arrived in Queenstown in the evening just in time for the fireworks to mark the beginning of the festival!
Everyone gathered for the fireworks
Such glittery fireworks
Live music into the night
It was so strange to watch fireworks in June, the whole place has such a wintry feel to it which obviously to us makes it feel like CHRISTMAS. They even have santa outfits knocking around.... Very strange
The next day we had a lazy morning, porridge and a lie in! we then walked around the lake, just for an hour or so, before heading back for the winter festival parade
A swing in our lake walk
The view around the lake
The 12 o'clock parade was all of the local businesses showcasing their floats. There were so many children involved which made for a really nice atmosphere
Some kiddies dressed as....carrots?!
After a packed lunch we headed up to where the skyline gondola station is. It was alerts to us it was a steep walk. They weren't kidding! After about 90 mins walking we made it to the top. The views were amazing
Cool chairs on the way up
Carved out of the trees
View from the top
We treated ourselves to a drink when we made it ! And to celebrate the University confirming we had in fact passed our degrees! (Phew)
After this bit of Dutch courage we decided to go on the Queenstown skyline luge. A track where you go on what looks like a sled round icy corners (very fast...eek)
The track
On a ski lift up to the track
It was so much fun! We went so fast and overtook a number of more elderly riders, they were a very cautious bunch! At the bottom after a lot of screaming we saw some very funny pictures of ourselves! We decided we needed a hot chocolate to warm the hands... Back to the amazing Views
We walked back down the hugely steep hill to the bottom, as the sun came down we had one last gaze over the water
Before heading to listen to the live music round at the little bar in the centrE. They were serving mulled wine! It just feels so much like Christmas!!!
HAPPY JUNE CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!
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