After the spectacular Clay Cliffs, the intrepid travellers stopped for a coffee at Omarama, then back in the car and southwards.
Another of the Old Pharts favourite roads in New Zealand is the Lindis Pass. It begins on State Highway 8 south of Omarama, and runs between the Lindis and Ahuriri Rivers, through to Tarras. The cafe at Tarras is another favourite spot.
Mid afternoon we reach Wanaka, and settle in to the modern and comfortable West Meadows Motel, for the next nine days. On the agenda .. skiing, golf, bike hire, hiking, eating out and catching up with friends. The latter has been affected by another Covid outbreak, moving Auckland to Level 3 and the rest of NZ, Level 2.
Fortunately the ski fields are able to operate, disruptions being numbers in the cafes, and chair lift loading restrictions, whence bigger queues.
Friday was a spectacular day, so we headed up to Cardrona. A “Bluebird” windless day, but large crowds curtailed ski time. An enjoyable day none the less.
From “Whitestar” heading to “Captains” 
“Bluebird” 
Down to Captains chair
With the long range weather forecast looking settled, the Old Pharts decided to abandon the skis for the weekend, and indulge in other activities. Saturday we hiked to the top of Mt Iron, which looms alongside the township. An easy climb is gives great aerial views of the lake, town and mountains. The scale of growth in Wanaka over recent years is amazing!
Sunday, and we decided to play the Wanaka golf course, for the first time. A glorious day, albeit chilly, the views from particularly the front 9, were spectacular!
Views atop Mt Iron 
“Fore!” Wanaka golf club 
Wanaka golf course
The weather continued to be gloriously fine, so it was back to Cardrona Monday and Tuesday. Less crowds were appreciated, and a lot more runs packed into the day.
Wednesday was a day off the skis, and bike rental and an explore around the Lake. We cycled to the Clutha outlet, and followed the river to Albert Town. Lunch was at the popular Pembroke Patisserie, with its authentic French pastries and breads. Delicious!
The lake from the cycleway 
Clutha outlet 
After a hard day on the slopes!
Wanaka is blessed with many fine cafes and eateries. The wonderful Florence’s cafe and food store was a short walk from our motel, and we were frequent visitors. Not normally open in the evening, they do a “communal” set menu dinner on Wednesday night. We attended, and enjoyed the food and company. Other old favourites revisited were Big Fig, Red Star Burgers, Amigos Mexican and Relishes Cafe.
We decided to make Thursday our final day at Cardrona. Four days of excellent skiing. We were happy. Friday, the weather was deteriorating, so we drove to Queenstown and had lunch with old friends Russell and Susan Mawhinney. Russell was a cricket colleague from many years back. A nice catch up.
Lake, town and Mt Iron
For a final night treat, we booked Bistro Gentil, on Golf Course Rd. Excellent food and service, and a fitting end to a really enjoyable nine days.
The next morning, we loaded up the Forester, and headed back to where we started .. Christchurch.
