Atawhenua - going into the land of shadows - Piopiotahi | Milford Sound - Day 6

Today started earlier than usual, waking up around 6:30 this morning. We quickly ate breakfast and packed up the car, making our way to the events centre to be picked up by the van to take us into Piopiotahi/Milford Sound. While waiting for the van, the rain started, continuing for hours. 


The drive into Piopiotahi was around two hours, with stunning views of the temporary waterfalls from the rain the previous day. The low clouds and rain made for beautiful views. We made a stop at a lupin field for photos, which contrasted nicely against the greenery of the the Fijordlands. 






The road took us through a 1.3km tunnel through the mountain, and from there, there was a 900 metre descent to the wharf. Once at the wharf, we were put on the smallest boat, proving to be a good thing as we could get closer to the waterfalls and go further into the Sounds. 




seals on the rocks

Right from the beginning of the ride, the views were unbeatable, with the camera out for a good while, until it was too wet to take nice photos. Shortly we came up to a small waterfall, not expecting much from it, but getting absolutely soaked. We continued on over the swells and the sun came out, greatly appreciated after our unexpected shower. The seals must have also enjoyed the sun as we found them laying on the rocks. Slowly we made our way back to the wharf, going near yet another waterfall, somehow getting us more soaked than the last. Stood by the heater, me and Jonty tried warming up until he headed back out. 

a wet and drowned family

All trying to get the sensible, dry mum wet too!







We landed back at the wharf, went for a little walk before heading back to the van to take us back to Te Anau. 

Mitre peak is behind the peak

The shadows and layers of cloud is incredible


We stopped off to have a short walk, and later once Kea were spotted trying to break into peoples cars. They were facinating to watch, but unfortunately didn't want to fly when the cameras were in their direction. 

Quite the hit with tourists

A kea appreciating the height of our van

And it was caught in flight.

The next stop took us to Gunn River with the perfect skimming water, but very bad skimming rocks. Logan still managed to get 12 skims. The final stop before the bathroom break was at the the river to fill up water bottles and a whio was spotted. 

drink bottle filling





down the valley

up the valley and with it's dusting of snow

An hour later we arrived in Te Anau, and had a fantastic dinner at Ditto, before trying to solve our problems regarding tomorrows activities.

Ditto was an asian-fusion restaurant which made delicious food. We all enjoyed our Korean-styled meals and then began the long drive back to Queenstown where we were staying for the night.





such incredible clouds








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