Mon 6 & Tue 7 February 2017

• Km today: 0
• Total Km: 320

Monday morning was spent on the blog and getting a new clip for my pack which had broken when the fat me bent over a stream to fill my water bottle. The afternoon was also consumed by writing up the blog. Waitangi Day was fairly wet all day which. In the evening I met up with Jo Reading and the Rapata family for dinner and a night out.

Tuesday morning was a visit to the barber for a shave and roaming around Queenstown on a stunning day. There is a statue of William Rees, regarded as the founder of Queenstown, on the waterfront. In the afternoon I met Anna from Real Journeys and embarked on the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak. It is a trip that I have wanted to do for some time and I was fortunate to have such a great day to experience the steamer crossing to the high country station. The vessel which was built in 1912 was full to the gunnels with happy visitors. On arrival those on the farm show were escorted to feed the farm animals by our friendly guide. The deer, sheep and lambs were a real hit especially with the children. We tucked into a lovely afternoon tea and I found a comfy beanbag on the grass to enjoy the expansive views of the lake and mountains. It really was extraordinary. At 1600 it was time to watch the dogs muster sheep and a shearing demonstration that finished with rousing applause from the crowd. If only the shearers from our farm had got such cheers for each sheep shawn, funny. The trip was a real highlight for me. Visit http://www.realjourneys.co.nz for more information and to book.

This evening I spent in the most fabulous company of Maria, Ryan and Kamela Rapata. I absolutely love this family who have shown me the most unconditional hospitality whilst in Queenstown. Love you guys.