Exploring New Zealand: Scenic Drives, Glacial Lakes & Starry Nights
New Zealand is a place where every turn feels like stepping into a postcard. On this journey, Sudeshna and I ventured from Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook, discovering glacial lakes, breathtaking valleys, and for the very first time, the Milky Way in all its glory.
đźš— The Drive to Lake Tekapo
We started our journey on a rainy morning, with a 5-hour drive from our motel. The scenery kept shifting dramatically—from flat tussock-covered valleys to rugged alpine mountains. Every stop begged for a photo, from native tussock grasslands to rivers glinting in the rain.
🏞 Lake Wakatipu & David’s Staircase
After crossing Kingston, we headed toward Queenstown. David’s Staircase lookout revealed Lake Wakatipu in all its windy glory. The waves made the lake look like the sea! Quick snack stops and a riverside lunch fueled us for the next leg, while we soaked in the ever-changing views.
đź’§ Lake Pukaki: A Turquoise Masterpiece
The approach to Lake Pukaki felt almost extraterrestrial. Its brilliant turquoise waters, fed by glacial melt, were mesmerizing. Even a slight drizzle couldn’t dull the magic of tussock-covered hills against the mountains.
🏨 Our Stay with a View
We stayed two nights in a King Studio at Lake Tekapo, where every morning opened up to mountain views. The room was spotless, with a cozy kitchen, dining space, and even a heated towel rack. Pure comfort for adventurers like us.
✨ Stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve
Lake Tekapo is part of the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve. For the first time, we saw the Milky Way with our naked eyes and even spotted a shooting star. Whether on a guided tour or just outside your room, stargazing here is nothing short of magical.
đź—» Mount Cook / Aoraki: Glacial Wonders
The drive to Mount Cook took a bit longer due to heavy rain and wind, but the views were unforgettable. We explored Tasman Glacier and Hooker Valley Glacier. Fun fact: Sir Edmund Hillary trained in this area before climbing Everest!
❄️ Tasman Lake & Icebergs
Tasman Lake greeted us with floating icebergs in brilliant turquoise glacial water. Witnessing nature’s artwork up close was surreal—truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It made us realize why New Zealand is called the adventure capital of the world.
✨ Travel Tips for South Island
- Weather changes rapidly: be ready for rain, wind, and sun all in one day.
- Pack snacks and lunch: restaurants are few and often pricey.
- Stargazing is a must at Lake Tekapo.
- Allow extra travel time for scenic stops and photography.
🎥 Watch Our Full Journey
From serene lakes to snow-capped glaciers and star-filled skies, New Zealand never disappoints. Each view is a reminder that adventure awaits around every corner. Subscribe to FollowTheImprints for more breathtaking journeys across the world!