It is a well-known fact that the South Island is much more interesting than the North one when it comes to nature. I was really looking forward to experience the difference on my own. And I must say that it is very obvious from the first moment. During the two weeks here we have been to couple of spots (see below) and the beauty is astonishing. The other thing that I was amazed by is, that there is so many different kind of landscapes on a small piece of land. Example: desert-like sand dunes on the North followed by tropical looking bays with turquoise water and ended by mountains reaching over 2000m. All this within 200kms:
Upon arrival we went to visit our Slovak friend Miska in a god-forgotten land in the Marlborough Sounds - to get here, you need to either use boat or your legs - no road for around 60 kms. Only beautiful bays and clear water. Although our stay did not work out as intentionally planned, it was great to see this place (and Miska of course). And I have been as close to rainbow as never! :)
Marlborough Sounds - one of hundreds bays. The interesting fact is, that people actually live here.. Just the regular stuff as shopping probably becomes a day-long task in their case.
Farewell spit - northernmost tip of South Island - sand, sand, sand...
Farewell spit - look from the "alive" part towards the "dead-lands"
Farewell spit - goose airport :)
Wharariki beach - beautiful beach right next to Farewell spit. Quite heavy rain surprised us while enjoying the beauty.
Wharariki beach is home of a seal colony. This was the highlight for me - baby seals playing in the water. So funny to watch them! :)
Abel Tasman National park - 50 km coastal walkway through picture-perfect looking bays
Abel Tasman - one of many beaches.. At this one we took a rest and went for a swim and snorkeling. From the picture it may look like a tropical paradise, but the water is freezing cold!
Nelson Lakes National park - northern tip of the Southern Alps. Only 2 hour drive from Abel Tasman. We did a 2day hike here through the mountains with wonderful views over the surrounding valleys full of lakes.
Nelson Lakes National park - part of the hike was on the ridge which offered these beautiful valley and mountain views
Nelson Lakes National park - Angelus lake and hut. The hut was unfortunatelly fully booked so we could not stay for the night, but we could enjoy the view over the valley.
Nelson Lakes National park - Speargrass hut - our alternative option for overnight stay. Not bad as well :)
Currently we are enjoying the West coast and plan to cross the Alps to get to the unlucky Christchurch soon.
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