June 3, 2013
Today was another day of travel from Queenstown to Te Anau. I was sad to leave Queenstown behind because it’s been my favorite place so far, but I was excited to go to Te Anau because it’s near Milford Sound in Fiordland. Unfortunately, the only road that goes to Milford Sound is closed due to the blasts that have been happening in the area. There is a loose rock above the road and they are using dynamite to blast it out so it doesn’t come out spontaneously. It’s also a good time for them to do it because it’s winter here and it’s a quiet season. It doesn’t change the fact that I am super bummed I’m missing Milford Sound.
Anyways, today we stopped to see the takahe which is an endangered, flightless, and colorful bird in New Zealand at the Department of Conservation’s Wildlife Park. After all the rain yesterday, it was an absolutely beautiful day with blue skies without a cloud in site. I don’t think I got any pictures of that on my phone so they won’t be posted until I get back which is less than a week from now. Crazy, huh? Three and a half weeks has flown by in New Zealand! I can’t wait to upload all my pictures from my other cameras and put them up, so check back if you’re interested!
After that, we stopped into the Fiordland National Park Visitor Center and watched a movie about its beauty… that we won’t get to see. Bummer. The rest of the day was uneventful as we finished up some last lectures before we have our last quiz, our module four questions due, our final project presentation, and the final exam in the next two days. It sounds like a lot to do in such a short amount of time, especially when we have a whole day planned out tomorrow that is taking the place of the Milford cruise! We’re only here for two nights, and then we leave for Dunedin where we have our final two nights there.
I’m excited to go home just because I miss certain luxuries, and my friends and family. New Zealand has been awesome but it’s been an extremely busy and full trip, and I’d love some time to curl up and relax. I guess that’s why I have the rest of the summer (plus working) for!