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Fiordland is unquestionably the Meca of Great Walks so without hesitation we sampled the Kepler Track and braved the prolific sand-fly population by skinny-dipping in Lake Manapouri off Shallow Bay. Unable to book the Milford Track we settled for a dark drizzle drive up through Homer Tunnel and exited into sunny Milford Sound. The views of Mitre Peak reflecting in the Sound are worth every raindrop - shame about the embarkation building on the Cruise Warf that offer real journeys to know-where! We settled for a realistic journey down the Hollyford track, which can only be classified as one of the greatest walks ever. Still on a Hollyford high we retraced our journey back to Lake Manapouri where we camped and parked beside the Lake in glorious sunshine during a two-day heat wave. After topping up the tan our journey continued down south with a lightening tour of Lake Hauroko the deepest in NZ. A quick stop off at Tuatapere to learn of the lumber trade and privately owned Hump Ridge track ready for our next visit. Then on to Invercargil and the Bluff which we later learnt is not the most Southerly point in NZ despite its claim. Slope Point on the Catlins has the rightful claim to being the furthest Southern point in New Zealand. An unpretentious spot with no fuss, no tea-rooms and no admittance fee to the glorious views, but there is a sign to stand behind. Our first night on the Catlins was the most amazing when at Wakapapa Point as the sun began to set the Sea Lions came out on parade, they played, fought and basked in the late evening glow. Along this route we sore more Sea Lions and Fur Seals as well as the odd glimpse of a Dolphin or two. The Catlins is also host to many beautiful bays, waterfalls, and intriguing caves. But as the rains flooded the dirt tracks we decided to head for warmer climates up north. [« Prev] [Next »]
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