Haast to Queenstown

Some low clouds lay over the mountain ranges flanking the Haast River valley. However, it was dry and proved to stay that way for the day.

Over the weeks I have become something of a pass driving pro, so much so that I now rejoice at every winding road. It was no different for the Haast Pass Highway to the gates of the river. The scenery along the whole route was awe-inspiring, not just through the river gorge but especially along Lake Wanaka, Lake Hawea, and through the Kawarau Gorge into Queenstown. In Otago County, above all from Cromwell towards Queenstown, vineyards and orchards shaped much of the landscape. Although it was rather a long drive, it never got boring. My frequent stops kept me alert and eager for what this wonderful country has in store for me next.