Tekapo Time

Our first 'bank holiday' weekend and we headed south to Lake Tekapo. The journey took about three hours in a car laden down by four bikes. We were staying in a 'bach' (or holiday home) with another Christchurch family and their two boys. Tekapo is famous for one of the views of the South Island. On the edge of the village and at the southern end of the lake stands the diminutive church of the Good Shepherd. There's no need for stained glass in this church as the panoramic window takes in the full glory of creation
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Naturally enough, every tour bus between Queenstown and Christchurch disgorges its load who swarm around the church. So early morning and evening were the times to visit and wallow in the splendour of the setting. Close to the church is a bronze statue of a collie dog, honouring those tireless workers whose help was essential in opening up the MacKenzie region during the 1800's.

We climbed to the top of neighbouring Mt St John on Saturday and had a drink at the summit cafe, which is part of the University of Canterbury Observatory which sits atop the mountain and makes best use of the crystal clear night skies. An unsuccessful attempt to catch a couple of trout finished off a fantastic day. Sunday was a lazier day, spent partly at MacGregor Lake (below) and partly at the hot outdoor pools by Lake Tekapo.


A cycle ride past the hydro-electric scheme (busman's holiday?) on Monday was followed by lunch and packing the car. We left as the first drops of rain started to fall. It rained continuously until we were back in Christchurch, but at least that saved me from having to cut the grass once we were home (so it wasn't all bad!).

Sorry, folks but you've got a piccy of me to finish with, this time.