Sometimes a moody environment, travelling New Zealand South Island West Coast is a very special location unique experience. Nothing temperamental about the Tui birds though. Their joyful song reminds us that it’s time to shred off our cares for a few days.
First on our visit list is the Wilderness Eco Lodge and today it’s shrouded in mist. Never underestimate the power of smell, it makes an overwhelming first impression. (We note everything – from when the door opens – and the welcome begins.) My nose detects pine and lemon and get an eyeful of those magnificent views from the Guest Lounge:
Michael McSweeny, the manager of Wilderness Lodge, gives us a quick tour of the lodge rooms and gorgeous Honeymoon Suites located in a separate building. We decline his offer of coffee..must press on. Here’s Michael saying goodbye to another Michael.
After a night’s stay at a seaside chalet in Hokitika (chosen for the views, NOT the quality of the mattress) we packed up, passing the cleaning crew moving in with indecent haste before we managed to get a foot out the door! We’re off to Punakaiki, a stunning coastal location… while travelling New Zealand South island.
…and along the way, we’ll drop in to say hello to Jan Roberts of Breakers Boutique Lodge. This is the view from the separate garden annex at Breakers. We’ve stayed here and for an insomniac like me, there’s nothing quite like the sound of the sea to induce a blissful sleep.
Jan has to be one of the most knowledgeable hosts around and unswervingly hospitable “No thanks Jan, I’ve already eaten…really, a piece of your date loaf? Ok then, just one piece…alright, another one for Michael. That’ll keep us going to our next stop at the Pororari River Track:
…such a beautiful walk and the scenery constantly changes. Walking underneath a canopy of native ferns, I can’t begin to describe the pure oxygen I’m breathing.
Every now and then the track opens up to reveal beautiful river views… travelling New Zealand South island
The West Coast is considered fantastic mountain bike country with a choice of local tracks or some real back country adventure. Lonely Planet have just named it as one of the top 10 regions to visit in the World. No surprises there.
Here’s me having the last word. Go well dear traveller on travelling New Zealand South Island.
