The Johnsons' Journal

We arrived in Queenstown on the south island of New Zealand on Saturday afternoon after a three hour flight from Melbourne Airport. Even though it was overcast the scenery was beautiful. We took a walk through town and booked a “Ride of the Rings” tour for the following morning.

Sunday morning was foggy as we were shuttled along Lake Wakatipu to the small town on Glenorchy, but by the time we got on our horses the fog had cleared and we were blessed with views of the areas mountains which were used as Middle Earth in the Lord of the Ring movies. We rode for about 90 minutes around the area known as Paradise and the Dart River stopping at a number of film locations.

On the trail

"Middle Earth"

The guide stops for a photo op

After some lunch back in Queenstown at the famous Fergburger, which just might have been the best burger I have ever tasted, we set off for the Skyline Gondola for some great views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and “The Remarkables” mountain range. We took a ride down the “luge” track at the top of the Gondola which was lots of fun, even if Scott said I went as slow as a Granny.

At the top of the gondola

Spectacular view of Queenstown

We spent the evening at a nice tapas restaurant overlooking the lake. It was a great ending to a very nice visit to Queenstown. I think we will have to return… maybe during snowboard season!

Sunset on the lake