Where we are staying is right by where jet-boating down narrow canyons all began in New Zealand. There are at least three outfits offering jet-boating experiences round here all about the same high price. We opted for the one that required a long bus ride to get there for no extra cost. The reason being was that the bus took us almost to the top of a nearby mountain before descending down a hair raising track the other side down to a higher section of the Shotover River. The bus ride, with commentary from the driver, became a bit of a tour and made for a better value deal all round.
With our nerves mostly intact the occupants of the bus transferred to two jet boats that whizzed up, then down, a narrow section of river with rock cliffs climbing either side and plenty of seemingly impassable shallows. The drivers were fortunately very skilled at what they did and made it a fun ride. There were a few stops to look at abandoned / destroyed gold mining equipment reminding us of the differing fortunes of the area in past times.
Back on the bus we were taken to a former bungee jump site for the view and a needed (for some) break before returning the way we came.
As it was now mid-afternoon and we had missed lunch we drove into Queenstown for a wander around and to eat out. We opted for an Irish pub on the waterfront and managed to get balcony seats so we could watch the world go by while downing Guinness and our stew/bangers and mash. Queenstown is in a very picturesque setting but was a bit too busy for us. We’re glad we’re camping up in the hills.
Our plans are to head towards Te Anau and Milton soon. However, the weather gods seem to think the recent good run on the weather has been enough for us and the look ahead is not promising. We’ve decided to stay here an extra day and decide what to do tomorrow. Today we’ve picked a couple of hikes to do.
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