On wednesday morning, we were rather slow to start the track. Zion got pissed, and consquently we hurried up and left some food behind - not that we bought too much to begin with. The problem with doing a track with Israelis that are relatively fresh out of the army (1.5 years) is that they are too bloody cocky. Or, as Zion best put it: "we were soldiers in the Israeli army"... Oh well, so they think that ketchup, tuna, and bread is enough for food. Anyway, lack of experience in tracks, along with some "healthy" Israeli stupidity and cocckiness made the trip not very satisfying from a coolinary perspective (and I shall say no more about this matter).
The track itself was very nice. The first day was the more difficult day, as it involved climbing up quite a bit. I went ahead, and left the two stooges behind (they were too slow, and I was still upset about the morning..). Anyway, at the hut I met 5 more Israelis, 4 in one group and one solitary. There were also 2 German girls, a Dutch girl, a local guy, an American couple, and a bunch of other folks.
The second day was the most attractive one in terms of views, as we were walking on the ridge. The huts were we stayes, were quite fancy for tracks - they have toilets and also cookers! Talks about 5 star tracking (or tramping as the locals seem to call it for whatever strange reason).
The hut was next to a freezing cold river, which didn't seem to bother Zion that much, he still went in for a shower. Oooh, it was so bloody cold, I couldn't even keep my hand in.
There's this Israeli card game called "Yaniv" (pretty nice, not too complicated). Apparently, it is very popular in Israel, but neither I nor one of the Israeli girls knew how to play. So it was quite amuzing to have the American couple teach us how to play it..
The third day wasn't very exciting, just bush walking for some14km or so to the next hut, which we learned (after the fact) wasn't necessary. Anyway, it still pretty cool, as it was next to a lake (that has one of those Mauri names that I can never remember). The lake was not as cold as the river from the day before (still cold though), so this time I dived in... We had a bit of a fire on the shore - pretty cool. There was some kind of a chimney that we used to keep the fire localized. I've never seen something like that before.
The fourth day was very short. Just walked a frew km to Rainbow Reach, which is a place where one can get a bus back to town. I got up early to get the bus and then drove back to pick the rest of the group. We had another Israeli join us for the day - his name is Ran. Apparently, he studied math for his Masters and did some Algebraic Geometry. It was quite itneresting talking to him, although I can't say that I know much about what he did...
The remainder of the day was a little strange. We got the "Pizza after the track" thing, which was decent (surprisingly, since Kiwis aren't very good when it comes to pizza's). Later in the evening, we had some free pool at the backpacker with a bunch of local girls that work at the backpacker for the most part. They drank an incredible amount of beer (one of them consumed about 2 dozen bottles on her own and she was pretty small too!). It was quite funny... Finally, we met a few more Israelis, and Zion and Arik went with them to the pub, where apparently things were rather amusing. As for myself - I stayed with the pool...
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Tuesday, March 27: Wanaka - Queenstown - Te Anau
Last night I left $10 in my shoe and a note to the camp manager not to wake me up and just leave $3 change in my shoe. Surprisingly, he followed the instructions well.
So we left Wanaka at 10:00 am towards Queenstown which is were we did shopping for the Kepler track to be strated tomorrow. We got some supplies, not as many as I deemed necessary (more to come about that), and headed to Te Anau. Like many towns in the south island, this place comprises of one main street with two pubs, a post office, 3 restaurants, 2 gas stations (typically there's one), a bakery, and a dairy store for those ice scream lovers.
So we left Wanaka at 10:00 am towards Queenstown which is were we did shopping for the Kepler track to be strated tomorrow. We got some supplies, not as many as I deemed necessary (more to come about that), and headed to Te Anau. Like many towns in the south island, this place comprises of one main street with two pubs, a post office, 3 restaurants, 2 gas stations (typically there's one), a bakery, and a dairy store for those ice scream lovers.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Monday, March 26: Wanaka
The night was awful! So the sleeping arrangement were: Zion on the sofa, Arik on the floor, and yours truly sharing this called a bed with Simcha. Anyway, at 4:30 AM I had to get out. Couldn't take Zion's snoring anymore. Granted, they were remarkably periodic. So, there I wasat 4:30am trying to figure out what to do. The car was the most viable option, and while it worked, I vowed never to use it again.
So this morning Arik seemed a bit sick, and he bailed out of the track. I wasn't feeling too great either, but it seemed to me that if I had bailed out too, Zion would shoot himself, as he was very keen on the track. So, off we went Zion and I. The track was very monotonous - simply going up for 3 hours, gaining about 1000m of altitude. The view at the top was very nice, and had the weather been better, would have been nodoubt spectacular. On the way up close to the top we met an older couple (63/60). The guy is a U of M graduate from 1966. Go Blue!
On the way down, we met two Israelis, who as it turned out stayed at our backpacker.
As I anticipated the day before, by the time we got back there was not enough time to go to Queenstown, although I was all for it, but my companions resisted.
Dinner was great - Mother Zion (which is how Zion goes by now - since he cooks for us and takes care of us :), decided to spoil us all, and prepared a great shakshuka. The standards are getting higher and higher.
Sleeping - again, we haven't paid for a bed, so we had to figure the sleeping arrangment. Based on last night's experience, I decided to got for the camp ground. Zion and Arik went for the caravan option. The campground was interesting: I got to set up the tent that I bought for $15 for the first time. It was crap. The thermalrest though, was brilliant. All in all it wasn't too bad.
So this morning Arik seemed a bit sick, and he bailed out of the track. I wasn't feeling too great either, but it seemed to me that if I had bailed out too, Zion would shoot himself, as he was very keen on the track. So, off we went Zion and I. The track was very monotonous - simply going up for 3 hours, gaining about 1000m of altitude. The view at the top was very nice, and had the weather been better, would have been nodoubt spectacular. On the way up close to the top we met an older couple (63/60). The guy is a U of M graduate from 1966. Go Blue!
On the way down, we met two Israelis, who as it turned out stayed at our backpacker.
As I anticipated the day before, by the time we got back there was not enough time to go to Queenstown, although I was all for it, but my companions resisted.
Dinner was great - Mother Zion (which is how Zion goes by now - since he cooks for us and takes care of us :), decided to spoil us all, and prepared a great shakshuka. The standards are getting higher and higher.
Sleeping - again, we haven't paid for a bed, so we had to figure the sleeping arrangment. Based on last night's experience, I decided to got for the camp ground. Zion and Arik went for the caravan option. The campground was interesting: I got to set up the tent that I bought for $15 for the first time. It was crap. The thermalrest though, was brilliant. All in all it wasn't too bad.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Sunday, March 25: Wanaka
Woke up feeling crap still..
This day was not very eventful. Finally after quite a bit of time without a real meat meal, I went for the chicken and chips option. Simcha and I got a whole chicken and 2 big fries (or chips as they call them down here), together with a salad and humus...
Orignially, we were planning on leaving tomorrow morning to Queenstown, but after having spoken to Noam (one of those many Israelis around), who enthusiatically advised us to go up to Roy's peak, we decided we'd leave to Queenstown tomorrow afternoon (personally, I have my doubts about us making it on time - we'll see).
In the evening we went to the theater (there's only one in town), which sells the best cookies in the world (supposedly). The cookies were indeed really good, and enormously large. Due to an error on the sellers behalf we got 5 for the price of 3, so we can't complain...
The sleeping arrangements are interesting tonight: All three of us are going to sharing Simcha's Caravan (which is pretty small) with her.
This day was not very eventful. Finally after quite a bit of time without a real meat meal, I went for the chicken and chips option. Simcha and I got a whole chicken and 2 big fries (or chips as they call them down here), together with a salad and humus...
Orignially, we were planning on leaving tomorrow morning to Queenstown, but after having spoken to Noam (one of those many Israelis around), who enthusiatically advised us to go up to Roy's peak, we decided we'd leave to Queenstown tomorrow afternoon (personally, I have my doubts about us making it on time - we'll see).
In the evening we went to the theater (there's only one in town), which sells the best cookies in the world (supposedly). The cookies were indeed really good, and enormously large. Due to an error on the sellers behalf we got 5 for the price of 3, so we can't complain...
The sleeping arrangements are interesting tonight: All three of us are going to sharing Simcha's Caravan (which is pretty small) with her.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Saturday, March 24: Wanaka
The antibiotics didn't seem to work yet. The caugh got worse. First thing on the menu was to get a caughing syrum.
We headed for Rob Roy track around noon. This is a 3 hour track to the one of the mountains around the lake that has snow on top. I figured I'd surprise the group and so I got one those tasty bread loafs for the trail, which was exposed at the the very end. Great success...
On the trail we met a few more Israelis - Oren (some friend of Zion apparently), Jennie (travles along with Oren for a while), and the guy from my unit. Apparently they sort of stay at our backpacker.
The track lead us to a very nice view point of the snow, however it ended short of the peak (I'd say about 1 hour short). Beyond that poit there was no marked trail. Of course, I figured why stop there. At which point the group split. Arik, Simca and Noa headed back, Zion and I headed up. We didn't go all the way to the top as it was going to be dark and we didn't have headlights. Bummer...
Strangely, we met Udi again at the backpacker. It seems that he is traveling along with Oren and Jennie and that he met them at the Hiburim place after we had called on Friday.
We headed for Rob Roy track around noon. This is a 3 hour track to the one of the mountains around the lake that has snow on top. I figured I'd surprise the group and so I got one those tasty bread loafs for the trail, which was exposed at the the very end. Great success...
On the trail we met a few more Israelis - Oren (some friend of Zion apparently), Jennie (travles along with Oren for a while), and the guy from my unit. Apparently they sort of stay at our backpacker.
The track lead us to a very nice view point of the snow, however it ended short of the peak (I'd say about 1 hour short). Beyond that poit there was no marked trail. Of course, I figured why stop there. At which point the group split. Arik, Simca and Noa headed back, Zion and I headed up. We didn't go all the way to the top as it was going to be dark and we didn't have headlights. Bummer...
Strangely, we met Udi again at the backpacker. It seems that he is traveling along with Oren and Jennie and that he met them at the Hiburim place after we had called on Friday.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Friday, March 23: Wanaka
Woke up with a new symptom: a caugh! So I decided this calls for a doctor's visit. I got some antibiotics and the usual other stuff. We'll see how that works.
Today I went to the puzzle world, which is a place that has loads of puzzles of all sorts (can literaly drive you crazy and keep you busy for days). It also has several rooms that have various different optical illusions. It was very fun. Surprisingly, we met Udi at this place. How coincidental! He is traveling the other way - went south on the east coast and going north on the west coast. What is also strange is that he was staying at this Hiburim place (Hiburim is a network of people that like to host Israelis for free or very few $$), which we called to check for availability. He was there when we called...
Other than that I haven't done a whole lot. I'm still staying at the same backpacker, which gazes onto Wanaka lake. There tons of Israelis around. We met this girl Noa, who knew Zion from the flight - she might join us for a track tomorrow (it's not clear if I'll join us - depends on how I feel). Also, there's another girl Simcha, who's working at the backpacker and might join us as well. Other than that, it was iteresting meeting a guy who served in the same unit as myself. Finally someone I can talk to...
Today I went to the puzzle world, which is a place that has loads of puzzles of all sorts (can literaly drive you crazy and keep you busy for days). It also has several rooms that have various different optical illusions. It was very fun. Surprisingly, we met Udi at this place. How coincidental! He is traveling the other way - went south on the east coast and going north on the west coast. What is also strange is that he was staying at this Hiburim place (Hiburim is a network of people that like to host Israelis for free or very few $$), which we called to check for availability. He was there when we called...
Other than that I haven't done a whole lot. I'm still staying at the same backpacker, which gazes onto Wanaka lake. There tons of Israelis around. We met this girl Noa, who knew Zion from the flight - she might join us for a track tomorrow (it's not clear if I'll join us - depends on how I feel). Also, there's another girl Simcha, who's working at the backpacker and might join us as well. Other than that, it was iteresting meeting a guy who served in the same unit as myself. Finally someone I can talk to...
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Thursday, March 22: Haast - Wanaka
It was a rough night. My cold is acting up. Hopefully it'll fade away tomorrow...
Unlike yesterday, the weather today was great - clear skies with no clouds. We headed up towards Jackson Bay (48km south of Haast), which is a detour, but there are supposed to be pinguins there and Zion is all about seeing them. The road to Jackson Bay was beautiful. In fact, a few words about beautiful roads: The road through Arthur's Pass (Christchurch - Greymouth) is beautiful. As is the road along the west coast heading south.
At Jackson Bay we saw no pinguins, but at least the place was very nice, well worth the drive. We returned to Haast and then headed to Wanaka. Wanaka lake and Hawea lake are simply stunning, especially the latter. Wanaka lake is very blue and Hawea lake looks like a fiord that reflects the mountains that surround it. Simply breathtaking.
Wanaka itself seems like a pretty nice place. We'll spend some time here for sure.
Unlike yesterday, the weather today was great - clear skies with no clouds. We headed up towards Jackson Bay (48km south of Haast), which is a detour, but there are supposed to be pinguins there and Zion is all about seeing them. The road to Jackson Bay was beautiful. In fact, a few words about beautiful roads: The road through Arthur's Pass (Christchurch - Greymouth) is beautiful. As is the road along the west coast heading south.
At Jackson Bay we saw no pinguins, but at least the place was very nice, well worth the drive. We returned to Haast and then headed to Wanaka. Wanaka lake and Hawea lake are simply stunning, especially the latter. Wanaka lake is very blue and Hawea lake looks like a fiord that reflects the mountains that surround it. Simply breathtaking.
Wanaka itself seems like a pretty nice place. We'll spend some time here for sure.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Wednesday, March 21: Franz Josef - Haast
My sour throat is gone, but I feel my cold is getting worse - not good.
The weather today was rather crappy - cloudy and later rainy. The folks at the DOC (Department of Conservation) said that we shouldn't do Copland track before Friday or Saturday, so we gave up on that and decided to head to Haast. We planned to stop at this beach (long complicated name) to see sea seals (which Zion kept talking about and wanted to see). But, it was going to be a 3.5 hour walk, so we gave up on that. We stopped at a Salmon farm later on, again, nothing spectacular.
Haast is small tiny little place with absolutely nothing to do. The hostel, however, was very nice and clean, yet rather cold for my taste. Dinner, was great, as is always the case. It seems that dinner has become one of the highlights of the day. Chef Zion is improving (and improvising), and the Israeli salad was beyond words. Add to that great pasta along with beans and humus, and there it is - a truly fabulous meal.
Since I'm not feeling well, and since there's nothing to do I'll be turning in before 9:00 tonight - Yea!
The weather today was rather crappy - cloudy and later rainy. The folks at the DOC (Department of Conservation) said that we shouldn't do Copland track before Friday or Saturday, so we gave up on that and decided to head to Haast. We planned to stop at this beach (long complicated name) to see sea seals (which Zion kept talking about and wanted to see). But, it was going to be a 3.5 hour walk, so we gave up on that. We stopped at a Salmon farm later on, again, nothing spectacular.
Haast is small tiny little place with absolutely nothing to do. The hostel, however, was very nice and clean, yet rather cold for my taste. Dinner, was great, as is always the case. It seems that dinner has become one of the highlights of the day. Chef Zion is improving (and improvising), and the Israeli salad was beyond words. Add to that great pasta along with beans and humus, and there it is - a truly fabulous meal.
Since I'm not feeling well, and since there's nothing to do I'll be turning in before 9:00 tonight - Yea!
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Tueday, March 20: Franz Josef
I woke up with a massively sour throat, which is still nagging me. Hopefully it'll be gone by tomorrow.
We did the 3/4 day tour of Franz Josef Glacier. This is the only glacier in the world that actually grows and it does so at a very rapid pace (a few meters a year as I recall). We got crampons and walked on the glacier, which was very nice and rather tiring. Zion wanted to have one of those pictures where he is naked on the ice. So off he and Arik went for the photo opportunity. I stayed put for lunch.. As it turns out, when he was all naked, the other group passed by. He couldn't do anything but laugh, and they, however, where very shocked...
Upon our retturn to Franz Josef, we decided that we'll make Shakshuka for dinner. It turned out great except for Zion having been heavy handed on the pepper, which resulted in a rather spicy shakshuka. Next time, I'll assume charge of anything that's spicy...
We did the 3/4 day tour of Franz Josef Glacier. This is the only glacier in the world that actually grows and it does so at a very rapid pace (a few meters a year as I recall). We got crampons and walked on the glacier, which was very nice and rather tiring. Zion wanted to have one of those pictures where he is naked on the ice. So off he and Arik went for the photo opportunity. I stayed put for lunch.. As it turns out, when he was all naked, the other group passed by. He couldn't do anything but laugh, and they, however, where very shocked...
Upon our retturn to Franz Josef, we decided that we'll make Shakshuka for dinner. It turned out great except for Zion having been heavy handed on the pepper, which resulted in a rather spicy shakshuka. Next time, I'll assume charge of anything that's spicy...
Monday, March 19, 2007
Monday, March 19: Franz Josef and Okarito
Things picked up a little from yesterday. First thing we decided to mail back the keys. Surprisingly enough, the post office person was no other than the "lady" from the other night in Okarito who treated us badly. I was nice to her in the Americcan way for those people you don;t like (Zion was all about being straight forward). Surprisingly, as I left she came by and said she wanted to appologize deeply for the way they treated us.
On we went to Okarito for a half day track. It was quite lovely, especially in light of the fact that there was no rain. The track went up a low ridge and ended with a few km's walk on the beach.
Afterwords we returned to Franz Josef to the hostel and had and cooked dinner. Mira joined us. I haven't mentioned this before, but Zion is our cook. The guy makes the best Israeli salad you can think of, and is quite creative with pretty much anything else. Only problem is he likes things spicy. Anyway, the pasta turned out better than last time, yet a bit too spicy. We'll have to work on that..
Finally, we booked ourselves for the Kepler hike (4 days, 3 nights) starting on the 28th of March. Mira might join us. We'll see. I give her fifty-fifty...
On we went to Okarito for a half day track. It was quite lovely, especially in light of the fact that there was no rain. The track went up a low ridge and ended with a few km's walk on the beach.
Afterwords we returned to Franz Josef to the hostel and had and cooked dinner. Mira joined us. I haven't mentioned this before, but Zion is our cook. The guy makes the best Israeli salad you can think of, and is quite creative with pretty much anything else. Only problem is he likes things spicy. Anyway, the pasta turned out better than last time, yet a bit too spicy. We'll have to work on that..
Finally, we booked ourselves for the Kepler hike (4 days, 3 nights) starting on the 28th of March. Mira might join us. We'll see. I give her fifty-fifty...
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Sunday, March 18: Greymouth - Franz Josef
Today has been a remarkably crappy day. Zion and Arik think we've been jinked by the fact that we took the keys from "around-the -world" hostel. I have my doubts. Let's strat with the beginning...
So the weather in the morning was still bad, and so we decided to give up on going to Franz Josef glacier. Instead we figured we'd take it easy for a day. So we headed to Hokitika, some 40km south of Greymouth, along the coast. The weather cleared up and we decided to go on some local tracks. After driving for over an hour we realized we had no clue where the tracks were. We stopped near the ocean, and realized that one of the two car keys was gone - the one that opens the doors (the second one is for the ignition and the trunk). Not good. We headed back to Hokitika, as Arik thought we might have dropped it there. I was doubtful. Upon arrival Arik and Zion looked for the key and I mistakenly locked us out. So now we had no key and no way to even drive anywhere. Anyway, after about 30 minutes the key literally miraclously appeared on the ground, thus saving us loads of trouble.
We continued south to Okarito and arrived there around 9:00pm. It was pitch dark and raining. The place has about 30 families, which own several hostels. The hostels were full, except for this one place that had one bed. Arik and Zion figured they's sleep in the car, and I was going to take the bed. Well, to make a long story short the couple in charge thought we were trying to scham them and sneak in, which we weren't. We just wanted to use the kitchen for dinner. They didn't even let us do that, and effectively made us leave, which we did, once I got my money back.
We arrived at Franz Josef (pop. 200) some 30 minutes later, and there again we ran into a nasty guy. All hosteld were closed (Kiwis go to bed early it seems). This guy who ran a BBH hostel wouldn't even check availability, he just said they were closed. When we asked whether we should just sleep outside in the rain standing like horses, he said we could go to the bar....
Fortunately, the girl at the reception at a YHA hostel was very nice and fixed us with some beds, despite the hostel being closed...
Lastly, we met this Jewish Canadian girl, goes by Mira, who is in NZ for 3 months and is about half way through. We talked to her a bit and decided to meet up tomorrow evening and possibly register for a track together.
So the weather in the morning was still bad, and so we decided to give up on going to Franz Josef glacier. Instead we figured we'd take it easy for a day. So we headed to Hokitika, some 40km south of Greymouth, along the coast. The weather cleared up and we decided to go on some local tracks. After driving for over an hour we realized we had no clue where the tracks were. We stopped near the ocean, and realized that one of the two car keys was gone - the one that opens the doors (the second one is for the ignition and the trunk). Not good. We headed back to Hokitika, as Arik thought we might have dropped it there. I was doubtful. Upon arrival Arik and Zion looked for the key and I mistakenly locked us out. So now we had no key and no way to even drive anywhere. Anyway, after about 30 minutes the key literally miraclously appeared on the ground, thus saving us loads of trouble.
We continued south to Okarito and arrived there around 9:00pm. It was pitch dark and raining. The place has about 30 families, which own several hostels. The hostels were full, except for this one place that had one bed. Arik and Zion figured they's sleep in the car, and I was going to take the bed. Well, to make a long story short the couple in charge thought we were trying to scham them and sneak in, which we weren't. We just wanted to use the kitchen for dinner. They didn't even let us do that, and effectively made us leave, which we did, once I got my money back.
We arrived at Franz Josef (pop. 200) some 30 minutes later, and there again we ran into a nasty guy. All hosteld were closed (Kiwis go to bed early it seems). This guy who ran a BBH hostel wouldn't even check availability, he just said they were closed. When we asked whether we should just sleep outside in the rain standing like horses, he said we could go to the bar....
Fortunately, the girl at the reception at a YHA hostel was very nice and fixed us with some beds, despite the hostel being closed...
Lastly, we met this Jewish Canadian girl, goes by Mira, who is in NZ for 3 months and is about half way through. We talked to her a bit and decided to meet up tomorrow evening and possibly register for a track together.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Saturday, March 17: Christchurch - Greymouth
Finally, we left Christchurch for good. Right after we left we realized that Zion and Arik forgot to return the keys to their room at "Arround-the-world" backpackers in Christchurch.
We got all the way to Arthu's pass, but unfortunately the weather was shit. So we decided to give up on the tracks around there and continued all the way to the west coast, specifically, Greymouth, which is a small 10,000 people place and is the major city on the coast apparently.
We stayed at this place (Neptune, BBH hostel) with free pool, which was nice. The guy who runs the place used to drive the Magic bus (it's one of those tour buses) for 7 years, so he was a pretty funny chap.
We got all the way to Arthu's pass, but unfortunately the weather was shit. So we decided to give up on the tracks around there and continued all the way to the west coast, specifically, Greymouth, which is a small 10,000 people place and is the major city on the coast apparently.
We stayed at this place (Neptune, BBH hostel) with free pool, which was nice. The guy who runs the place used to drive the Magic bus (it's one of those tour buses) for 7 years, so he was a pretty funny chap.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Friday, March 16: Cass and Christchurch :(
After a quick breakfast, we headed back towards Springfield (half way through) to check out large boulders that are along the way. Some folks did rock climbing on them, we were not equipped for that.
The main attraction of the day was, without a doubt, the water cave (or cave stream as it might be called). It's a walk through a cave that has water running though it. The walk took us about 40 minutes (sign says 1 hours..). The water was freezing cold. At first I couldn't even have my feet in it for more than 10 seconds or so, as it was too painful. Zion, who nothing seems to bother him, simply went in (water to his waist). I followed and after a couple of minuted the pain seemed to have vanished. It took a bit of persuation to get Arik on board. We had to used headlights (of which we only had two), since it was pitch dark (a 40 minute walk in a cave ...). The experience was awesome! The view inside the cave was brilliant. Unfortunately, we didn't bring cameras (although we could have) for fear of them getting wet.
After the water cave we returned to Cass to grab our gear. Originally, we planned to continue to Arthur's Pass, but Zion claimed it was St. Patrick's Day today, and we figured we could have a quick run to Christchurch for all the action. Anyway, he was wrong... It's tomorrow. But here we are in Christchurch yet again :(
Also, on the way to Christchurch I was caught speeding (80 instead of 50) right at the entence to the city. It was very unpleasant, especially in light of the fact that the odometer is broken, which is a problem with cars that run on Diesel in NZ (as you are supposed to buy km's). Anyway, since I have no address in NZ, and since I pretended to be an American, I got off the hook with just a warning...
Tomorrow we are leaving this place for good, gutting all the way to Arthur's Pass! At least that's the plan...
The main attraction of the day was, without a doubt, the water cave (or cave stream as it might be called). It's a walk through a cave that has water running though it. The walk took us about 40 minutes (sign says 1 hours..). The water was freezing cold. At first I couldn't even have my feet in it for more than 10 seconds or so, as it was too painful. Zion, who nothing seems to bother him, simply went in (water to his waist). I followed and after a couple of minuted the pain seemed to have vanished. It took a bit of persuation to get Arik on board. We had to used headlights (of which we only had two), since it was pitch dark (a 40 minute walk in a cave ...). The experience was awesome! The view inside the cave was brilliant. Unfortunately, we didn't bring cameras (although we could have) for fear of them getting wet.
After the water cave we returned to Cass to grab our gear. Originally, we planned to continue to Arthur's Pass, but Zion claimed it was St. Patrick's Day today, and we figured we could have a quick run to Christchurch for all the action. Anyway, he was wrong... It's tomorrow. But here we are in Christchurch yet again :(
Also, on the way to Christchurch I was caught speeding (80 instead of 50) right at the entence to the city. It was very unpleasant, especially in light of the fact that the odometer is broken, which is a problem with cars that run on Diesel in NZ (as you are supposed to buy km's). Anyway, since I have no address in NZ, and since I pretended to be an American, I got off the hook with just a warning...
Tomorrow we are leaving this place for good, gutting all the way to Arthur's Pass! At least that's the plan...
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Thursday, March 15: Christchurch - Cass
I finally left Christchurch - Hurray!!
Zion's friend, Arik, arrived from Israel aroud 12:30. We picked him up from the airport, but unfortunately had to go back to town to reserve the Milford Sound track, which is a 4 day track and is supposed to be one of the nicest in the world. Anyway, lucky enough I managed to get a spot on the last day of availability for the season - April 20.
So we left town around 16:30 heading towards Arthur's Pass. That's driving on the alpine road from east to west. The idea was to drive the whole thing (~3 hours). Fortunately, when we stopped for gas, we talk to some guy who suggested we do some attractions along the way. Fortunately again, some girl named Beecky had her car break down and needed a lift, which was arranged in return for lodgings at a place called Cass, which is about 20km west of Springfield on Road 73. The place was simply Amazing! There are two huts that belong to the university, and there were 4 girls and two guys who were doing some sort of eccological research there. We had one hut for ourselves, which was fully equiped: Fireplace, kitchen, 20+ bunk beds, laundry, dry room, bathrooms, and beautiful view to the mountains which had just received their first snow yesterday! (I guess it was well worth having bad weather).
Staying at Cass is simply great, no questions about. Good thing that Beecky's car broke down..
Zion's friend, Arik, arrived from Israel aroud 12:30. We picked him up from the airport, but unfortunately had to go back to town to reserve the Milford Sound track, which is a 4 day track and is supposed to be one of the nicest in the world. Anyway, lucky enough I managed to get a spot on the last day of availability for the season - April 20.
So we left town around 16:30 heading towards Arthur's Pass. That's driving on the alpine road from east to west. The idea was to drive the whole thing (~3 hours). Fortunately, when we stopped for gas, we talk to some guy who suggested we do some attractions along the way. Fortunately again, some girl named Beecky had her car break down and needed a lift, which was arranged in return for lodgings at a place called Cass, which is about 20km west of Springfield on Road 73. The place was simply Amazing! There are two huts that belong to the university, and there were 4 girls and two guys who were doing some sort of eccological research there. We had one hut for ourselves, which was fully equiped: Fireplace, kitchen, 20+ bunk beds, laundry, dry room, bathrooms, and beautiful view to the mountains which had just received their first snow yesterday! (I guess it was well worth having bad weather).
Staying at Cass is simply great, no questions about. Good thing that Beecky's car broke down..
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Wednesday, March 14: Christchurch
Bad weather day. No car drying. Not good. I spent most of the day running errands. Nothing too exciting. Got myself a decent sleeping bad, a thermal rest, and some good food. Other than that it was a rather uneventful day.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Tuesday, March 13: Akaroa - Christchurch
Today did not start so well. First of all, it was pouring the whole night, and the wind was blowing like crazy. Taking a shower under those conditions, where the shower is a bit of a walk away, is not fun. Additioally, on my to the shower I slid on my butt, which was hardly enjoyable given the puddles.
As we got to the car to leave, Zion opened the door and broke the news: Someone left the window open next to the driver's seat (someone = Udi). Given the storm from last night, there was puddle in the car. Something to be dealt with later.
We drove to town, spent some time there, and then Barak, Liron, and Udi took off , and Zion and I drove back to Christchurch. Upon arrival we decided the water situation in the car needed to be dealt with. So we bought a hairdryer went to "Around the world" hostel, where we stayed before, and sarted drying the left back floor. After an hour we gave up. This just ain't gonna work, since there too much water under the rug. Hopefully, if the sun shines tomorrow, it'll dry up naturally. We shall see..
As we got to the car to leave, Zion opened the door and broke the news: Someone left the window open next to the driver's seat (someone = Udi). Given the storm from last night, there was puddle in the car. Something to be dealt with later.
We drove to town, spent some time there, and then Barak, Liron, and Udi took off , and Zion and I drove back to Christchurch. Upon arrival we decided the water situation in the car needed to be dealt with. So we bought a hairdryer went to "Around the world" hostel, where we stayed before, and sarted drying the left back floor. After an hour we gave up. This just ain't gonna work, since there too much water under the rug. Hopefully, if the sun shines tomorrow, it'll dry up naturally. We shall see..
Monday, March 12, 2007
Monday, March 12: Akaroa
As always, the day didn't start until late (~11:00). We hiked up the mountain from the hostel (about a 3 hour hike roundtrip) and had a brilliant view of both the ocean and what we had thought was a like the other day. The weather was beautiful and so was the walk. Upon our return we headed to town to get some groceries for dinner (although it was still before 4 o'clock...).
In town we met another Israeli (Barak), or better say, he spotted us as Israelis. Possibly hearing one of loudly swearing (I wouldn't dare say who..) might have given us away. He happened to be looking for a place to stay so we offered our cabin and food. The meal was very good indeed.
After that we yet again played that card game, and My streak of winnings came to a sorry end with the last game of the evening..
In town we met another Israeli (Barak), or better say, he spotted us as Israelis. Possibly hearing one of loudly swearing (I wouldn't dare say who..) might have given us away. He happened to be looking for a place to stay so we offered our cabin and food. The meal was very good indeed.
After that we yet again played that card game, and My streak of winnings came to a sorry end with the last game of the evening..
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Sunday, March 11: Christchurch - Akaroa
The 3 Israelis (Liron, Udi, Zion) and I left to Akaroa. Once we got there Udi and I couldn't resist going into the lake, which was very salty and thus turned out to be in fact connected to the ocean (not much of a lake..). The water was chill but not that bad, still cold enough the the other woosed out.
Anyway, after a quick dip we went to this hostel called Onuku (some 3 km from the town), which is up the mountain. As we went up it became apparant that the car was not made for this. At 10km/h at full gas - something was clearly not working proply. So it's a piece of shit. Maybe I'll get rid of it and buy a new one - we'll see.
The hostel was brilliant. Although we had no electricity in our cabin, the place itself was exceptionally nice. I also met this couple from whom I bought some pots, pans, estry, lamp, etc, for 60 bucks. Not a bad deal.
We went back to town for dinner and were recommended this really good pizza. It turned out to be the worst pizza I have ever had (and I've had many)! That together with loosing a couple of games of pool to Trevor and Ingrid (locals) was enough for the evening and we headed back to the cabin. Were we playes some strange board game that I have never heard of, and recall its name. Anyway, I think we might have been rather loud (and obnoxious?) to the neighbors. Oh well..
Anyway, after a quick dip we went to this hostel called Onuku (some 3 km from the town), which is up the mountain. As we went up it became apparant that the car was not made for this. At 10km/h at full gas - something was clearly not working proply. So it's a piece of shit. Maybe I'll get rid of it and buy a new one - we'll see.
The hostel was brilliant. Although we had no electricity in our cabin, the place itself was exceptionally nice. I also met this couple from whom I bought some pots, pans, estry, lamp, etc, for 60 bucks. Not a bad deal.
We went back to town for dinner and were recommended this really good pizza. It turned out to be the worst pizza I have ever had (and I've had many)! That together with loosing a couple of games of pool to Trevor and Ingrid (locals) was enough for the evening and we headed back to the cabin. Were we playes some strange board game that I have never heard of, and recall its name. Anyway, I think we might have been rather loud (and obnoxious?) to the neighbors. Oh well..
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Saturday, March 10: Christchurch
Not a very eventful day - but fun nonetheless. I checked out the Cathedral Square (center of town) again, and there was this hillarious juggling/comedy act by this Australian. Very funny.
Other then that I bought a tent for 15 bucks from some Israelis. Speaking of Israelis, I met a few at the hostel and we'll be heading together (mostly) to a place called Akaroa tomorrow.
Other then that I bought a tent for 15 bucks from some Israelis. Speaking of Israelis, I met a few at the hostel and we'll be heading together (mostly) to a place called Akaroa tomorrow.
Friday, March 9, 2007
Friday, March 9: Christchurch
Today was a rather productive day. First, I met the juggler and I got 5 balls from him for only 30 dollars, which is about 21 real dollars - An exceptionally good deal, and what is vastly more important is the fact that I actually have some good props to juggle. Hurray!
Also, a far less significant deal was purchasing a car. So now I'm crusing with a 1991 Nissan, automatic (I'd go for a manual, but...). The guy asked for 1200, we settled for 700. Not bad.
Also, a far less significant deal was purchasing a car. So now I'm crusing with a 1991 Nissan, automatic (I'd go for a manual, but...). The guy asked for 1200, we settled for 700. Not bad.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Thursday, March 8: Christchurch
Today was a semi productive day. I spent most of it trying to buy a car. While my efforts were not fruitful, I did gain some experience, and hopefully will have better luck tomorrow. I did get to drive on the wrong side today, and it is a very strange experience.
Also, I tried to finally get decent juggling balls. I've been told that Christchurch is the place. Anyway, it most certainly is not! As it turns out, there are two shops in town and they carry very crappy stuff. However, lucky as I am, I went to this Circo Art thing, which is a school for people that perform all sort of trciks (all forms of juggling included). Although they don't sell their merchandise, there was one guy who is willing to sell me some of his juggling balls. I'm excited! We are meeting tomorrow!
Also, I tried to finally get decent juggling balls. I've been told that Christchurch is the place. Anyway, it most certainly is not! As it turns out, there are two shops in town and they carry very crappy stuff. However, lucky as I am, I went to this Circo Art thing, which is a school for people that perform all sort of trciks (all forms of juggling included). Although they don't sell their merchandise, there was one guy who is willing to sell me some of his juggling balls. I'm excited! We are meeting tomorrow!
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Wednesday, March 7: Wellington - Christchurch
I finally did the touristy thing in Wellington. I went and saw the national archives, national library, the pariliament, the parliament building, and the government building, also called "the beehive" as it looks very much like one (I wonder what the employees are called). Conveniently, all these buildings are one next to the other. In all honesty, I don't find NZ history all that exicting, and I can hardly say that I was impressed too much by those national buildings. O well, at list they have good view...
I'm already half way through my book. Squeezing chapters whenever I can.
Finally, I made it out of Wellington (I thought I'd never leave). Got a short flight to Christchurch (not to be confused with Jewtown).
I have one oddity (is that even a word?) to report. When I went to bed the last couple of nights there was this extermely annoying high pitch sound. Upon asking the guy at the front desk to do something about it, he said he couldn't hear a thing! Anyway, it was loud enough that for the first time in my life I had to sleep with earplugs! I suppose I'm my own best friend (now who knows where that's taken from?)...
I'm already half way through my book. Squeezing chapters whenever I can.
Finally, I made it out of Wellington (I thought I'd never leave). Got a short flight to Christchurch (not to be confused with Jewtown).
I have one oddity (is that even a word?) to report. When I went to bed the last couple of nights there was this extermely annoying high pitch sound. Upon asking the guy at the front desk to do something about it, he said he couldn't hear a thing! Anyway, it was loud enough that for the first time in my life I had to sleep with earplugs! I suppose I'm my own best friend (now who knows where that's taken from?)...
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Tuesday, March 6: Wellington
Not much happening today. Had a late start (due to laundry), and mostly walked around. I think I got hooked on the Sudoku thing. I got one of those books with 320 easy to very hard riddles. Between the riddles and Grisham's book, I found myself not doing a whole lot. The book is certainly picking up, as are those riddles. I'm timing myself now...
Tomorrow I'm off to Christchurch (flying - so no ferry and no sea sickness) in the hopes of buying a car. It's seems more reasonable to buy one down there and save a couple of hundred dollars on the ferry.
Tomorrow I'm off to Christchurch (flying - so no ferry and no sea sickness) in the hopes of buying a car. It's seems more reasonable to buy one down there and save a couple of hundred dollars on the ferry.
Monday, March 5, 2007
Monday, March 5: Wellington
A few things got done. First, I got myself vaccinated (that's always fun) in preparation for a likely visit to South East Asia in a couple of months. Second, I got to check out the harbor during day time, which was very nice. I stumbled across some kind of kayaking race. Third, I saw this Sudoku riddle on the paper and figured I'd give it a shot (I spent several hours on the damn thing).
Other than that I walked around downtown, and closely examined the rather dead night life on this Monday night...
Other than that I walked around downtown, and closely examined the rather dead night life on this Monday night...
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Sunday, March 4 - River Valley - Wellington
Left River Valley rather late towards Wellington. It's about a 4.5 hour drive (when using a bus..). Nothing too spectacular along the way. Wellington, unlike Auckland, seems like a very nice place. Not too big, but very windy. The harbor is quite lovely and in the evening there was a farely impressive fire show.
Saturday, March 3, 2007
Saturday, March 3 - Taupo to River Valley
I Headed down from Taupo toward River Valley. On the way we stopped at this lovely 7-8 meter waterfall, from which some folks chose to jump. Needless to say, I couldn't resist (the water was so freezing that by the time I got out I couldn't feel my toes..). On the way to River Valley I bought this John Grisham book "The Brethren" at one of those $1 a book places. We'll see how interesting this turns out to be.
I arrived to River Valley in the early afternoon. It's a very small place that has a river and a valley... The place is truly magnificant. The river was pretty cold, but not as bad as at the waterfall. So a bunch of us jumped into that river as well (not as high though). Finally, they served a lovely dinner (or was I just too hungry?), which was a really nice break from supermarket food.
I arrived to River Valley in the early afternoon. It's a very small place that has a river and a valley... The place is truly magnificant. The river was pretty cold, but not as bad as at the waterfall. So a bunch of us jumped into that river as well (not as high though). Finally, they served a lovely dinner (or was I just too hungry?), which was a really nice break from supermarket food.
First posting
A few words of introduction: I never thought I would be one of them bloggers. But I figured it would be easiest to describe my journey/adventures/endeavors using this blog thing. So here goes...
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