february 27

Our New Zealand adventure began at the CDC at the Antarctic Centre on February 27. Marty's station wagon deal wasn't going to work for our party of five (Genevieve, Marty, Kevin, J, and I). So, our next best alternative was a van. We have lots of room and lots of windows.

For our first trip, we packed in for an overnight at Arthur's Pass. I have to say, I laugh out loud at the thought of traveling in what we've deemed the chartreuse caboose.

Heading out of Christchurch with our own set of wheels felt quite liberating. The first stop was for Sheffield pies at a little shop Kevin recommended. My appetite not quite rejuvenated, I forced one down and enjoyed knowing I had the calories.

Shortly after the pie indulgence, we resumed our ride and found ourselves on the side of fields and pastures near Castle Hills. This enormous group of rocks dotted the hills and provided an enjoyable romp through sheep and cattle fields. We spent an hour, or two, admidst the stone oddities; climbing, sitting, and wandering. Each of us (including J in the picture) enjoyed being outside without the potential frostbite risk!

From this point, we drove through the hills and mountains to Arthur's Pass. The pass itself is certainly not well labeled, but we pulled off in a few places to take in the views, as well as, the flora and fauna. We drove back and forth looking for a good spot and finally set up our tents for the evening along a grand riverbed. I had developed a cold, so I went to bed as soon as I could.