For the first time on this trip (apart from Auckland), I am staying overnight in a place that I already visited on my last trip to New Zealand: Franz Josef. This time, however, I am not going on a glacier tour. Rather, I am just passing through, and going further south tomorrow – for a very special adventure.

Even on a travel day, you may have an adventure. My route from St. Arnaud in Nelson Lakes National Park to Karamea on the west coast was an adventure in its own right due to the rather limited public transport: First, I took a private shuttle from St. Arnaud to Kawatiri Junction (approx. 20 min., 50,– NZD). From there, I caught the Intercity bus to Westport (2:19 hours, about 18,– NZD with a 45 hours flexipass). Finally, I took a minibus to Karamea (about two hours, 35,– NZD).

As the Intercity trip was going through the spectacular Buller Gorge, I also had something to see on the way.

I cannot really say that I visited Nelson. Even though I am spending the night there, I have mainly just used its infrastructure: doing my laundry, stocking up on food, and organizing my travels. In the evening, I finally had a short stroll through the city center. This gave me an idea why the town is that popular with backpackers: There are indeed quite many nice cafés and bars. However, for me, there are other more important attractions in New Zealand.

After 28 hours on the go, I finally arrived in New Zealand. Especially the time difference is getting to me, though. Continue reading Kia Ora, Aotearoa! →