New Zealand-Milford Sounds

Milford Sounds is such a unique part of New Zealand that we didn't want to miss it.  It was also a great opportunity to have a day off of driving since there are so many bus tours from Queenstown.  Unfortunately, they don't always communicate well:(

We had to be at our stop by 7:15am to catch our bus.  This, of course, is not an easy task, but we were successful...even early.  But as the time passed, and it got later and later, we started to get a bit concerned. Sure enough, when Ron finally got someone on the line to ask where the bus was, they told him that we were at the wrong bus stop and that we already missed our bus. But, if we hurried, and we got to that bus stop, another bus company agreed to take us on and get us to the correct bus at the midpoint where they all stop.  So we hustled over to that stop (a few blocks away!!) and made it onto the other bus...which was God's grace since not many buses would have nine extra seats!!

Milford Sounds is one of the wettest inhabited places on earth, raining an average of 182 days a year.  This stat made me feel better, since sure enough, it was raining...the first rain we had had during the day on our trip. But, you actually want rain since Milford Sound is known for its waterfalls...and we saw more than I could count. The bus trip to the fiord took about two hours, including a couple stops along the way. It was such a great way to enjoy seeing more of New Zealand...and a bit more restful than driving a camper van:) It was even pointed out to us when we drove below the 45th parallel...a feat that is difficult to do, unless you are going to Antarctica.  Then we arrived and after a short wait, boarded a boat for the ride around Milford Sounds.  We enjoyed our time on the boat, getting comfortable seats in a prime location that allowed us to go out on the deck if we wanted a better view.  The water falls were spectacular, as the driver got us as close to, or sometimes under, them as he could.  We even got to see some seals resting on some rocks.

Rebecca and Abby trying to stay dry

On the bus back to Queenstown...we saw the sun again

More sheep

All in all, it hit the mark of seeing a side of New Zealand that is unique and different.  Even though we were a bit wet, it was a restful trip. especially for the drivers, and we were able to get a little sleep on the bus before getting back to Queenstown.  After eating some pizzas in the camper van, we started the trek north, on our way to Franz Josef Glacier and Arthur's Pass.

On the road again...