We found the Wanaka tree

Possibly New Zealand's most photographed tree

Apple season

Suddenly - literally overnight it seems, though perhaps it has to do with the fact that we are creeping north - apples have appeared in the supermarket. Royal gala of course, but also varieties we have never heard of: pacific queen, sunrise, and sweet tango. Also, we found a pear that looks like a kiwi (the bird, not the fruit). We are in Wanaka for the night. And Dad, I just happened to be awake at 6:30 this morning. After snapping the sunrise photo I went back to sleep for another hour :)

Good morning, Arrowtown

Last night we returned to the land of consistent cell service (for now, at least). A more detailed post about the last couple days to follow from Neil if and when we find wifi.

Our wheels for the next 8-9 days

We are on our way to Milford Sound. There is no cell service there...we will update when we can!

Queenstown

Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand, given the many options for bungee jumping, sky diving and other exciting activities that are available here. Many bars and restaurants are open until 4am, so it is no wonder that this is an attractive destination for the 20-something crowd. The workers and the visitors are predominantly international (so much so that the "walk on the left" rule doesn't seem to apply here). We are staying in a hostel (though with our own room and bathroom) so the average resident is at least 10 years younger than us!

Yesterday we inquired about renting mountain bikes for the adventure park nearby, but after a few words of caution from the rental staff and looking up some YouTube videos of the track, we decided to find another activity. We crossed Lake Wakatipu aboard the steamship TSS Earnslaw and took a guided tour of the countryside on electric bikes.