We heard from a number of folks that the most majestic areas of New Zealand
could only be seen on foot.
We decided to book guided hikes on two famous "tracks" near Queensown in the
South island.
The first track we hiked was called "The
Milford Track," named after the incredible Milford Sound
fiord. It's a strenuous 33.5 mile, four day hike (one day is
dedicated exclusively
to boat/bus travel). The scenery was absolutely beautiful and the extra
money we paid in order to have a private bunk room and a hot shower at the end of each day
was well worth it.
We had a single day's rest before boarding a bus to the
Routeburn track, a 28 mile, three day hike
with serious inclines and views of the mountains. We were a little
apprehensive about going on the Routeburn trip because people are not allowed to
book private rooms. Everyone is required to "share" bunk rooms
with God knows what kind of people with weird habits.
As it turned out, we were incredibly lucky to be
the only group in two months to have less than the usual maximum of 24 people on
the hike.
We ended up with only six people in our group, including Barb and Paul Jenkel,
the parents of our good friends, Jeff and Cyndi Treuhaft. Can you imagine the odds?
We also got a private bunk with sheets that had been changed four weeks before!
You can see the amazing scenery from these hikes including the famous "Cyndi"
photo by clicking on the following
links:
