Muddy bums and empty tums

After selecting an amazing picnic spot for a beautiful overnight stop the night before last, we set off yesterday for Lake Tekapo. This was something of a diversion from our route but one of Rach’s family had said that the church there was well worth a visit. As we rounded the last corner and the lake hove into view we knew that it had been worth it. The lake was truly stunning, like a jewel in the land. It was an intense bright blue that neither of us could get enough of. We made it to the church, more through luck than anything due to the massive distraction that was the lake. The church was very picturesque and as opposed to the traditional stained glass windows behind the altar, there was plain sheet glass allowing the breathtaking views to penetrate the room. It was amazing and we’re not surprised that it is a popular place for weddings. It was only drizzling when we left the church and, wanting to see more of the lake, we decided to go for a walk up a nearby hill (read mountain). As we set off from the campervan the drizzle got a little heavier but nothing too worrying so we set off in high spirits.

Fifty minutes later we reached the summit. Grumpy. Wet. Cold. Hungry. The rain shower had turned into what was practically a storm and so bedraggled we sought shelter at the cafe. Even though there was a glass frontage we were in no mood to look out over the views, even had they not been as obscured by the raincloud that we’d just climbed through. After a brief while we’d perked up and so, being gluttons for punishment, we decided to take the longer return back to the van. It poured again and Rach managed to slip over in the mud. It was however worth the pain for the views on the way down, and trust us the picture doesn’t bring out the blue of the lake. It was really truly amazing.

Rex’s Rules of the Road

• Lake Tekapo is definitely worth the detour. Trust us.

• If you plan on walking in New Zealand take waterproofs, chances are you’ll need them at some point.

• What would our blog be without a few Tripadvisor reviews, here's some more: the Church of the Good Shepherd and Lake Tekapo itself.