Part 2 of my New Zealand blog will bring us to mount Doom ( mount Ngarahoe ), 2291m high and one of the most active volcanos in the world with more then 60 eruptions since 1839!
Will write some about Blue Duck station, its located off the beaten track near Whanganui National park. This high-country station offers a glimpse into life in rural New Zealand.
And a quick impression of Wellington, New Zealands capital.
Lets start with mount Doom, this volcano was used as a model in the Lord of the ring's movies and is part of the tongariro alpine crossing, known as one of the most spectacular hiking trails on the northern Island of New Zealand
During my journeys ive seen many people walking up hills , mountains or even long trails true all kinds of nature on slippers and bad shoes. Dont make that mistake when you do this hike!!
It is a serious walk that takes atleast 6-8 hours (extra climbs not calculated) and the volcanic soil which is mainly tons of loose stones and grid that needs good footwear.
The first 1,5 hours start off pretty steep, dont go too fast, you will need your energy later on! Ones you made your way up you will have an easy part, walking between the mountain tops. Ofcourse i was crazy enough to climb the 3 mayor peaks also , this is optional and i would only recommend it if you are in a good shape.
I was.....i had been backpacking for 4 months already and did lots of other trails prior to this one! Then again ....i was, this is a couple of years back, i should work on that :-(
For me this was one of the best expierences on the northern Island, it was so beautiful and a nice challenge!
Always remember that going down with tired legs migth even be worse then going up, take enough rest, bring lots of sugary food for energy and Always bring too much water!
I met some nice guys walking the same tempo like i did so i had good company on my way and damn did the beers later that evening taste good
Next up was Blue duck station, a great place if you want to feel what country life in New Zealand feels like, its kind of a backpackers accommodation where you can do all sorts of activities like horse tracking, hunting and kayaking, meanwhile the work with the sheeps and so on continue and its great to see! I really have to mention this place cos i had an awesome time there!
unfortunately i had a problem with my camera and wasnt able to take pictures during the hunting trip and kayaking, i hope i dont offend anyone but the goat tasted delicious during dinner!
Good thing i already took some pictures of this amazing waterfall
Wellington was the next stop, more then 10% of the population lives here (500 000 people) and feels like a city, not a big one but only in Auckland and Wellington i had that city feeling, for the rest its mainly small towns.
As a sports fan i had to visit a rugby game so i bougth a ticket for the Wellington Lions at the Westpack stadium.
I stayed a few nights at Wellington, night life is good and befor going to the south Island i had to charge my battery again!
In the next blog:
Abel Tasman national park and Franz Josef glacier!