Week 3: Let the South Island Adventure begin! (E)

Hey,
I'm doing well! I'm currently in the middle of my South Island adventure and have already discovered so many beautiful places and met wonderful people. In week 3, I first experienced some great days in Wellington before taking the ferry to the South Island and then from Abel Tasman and Westport to Mahinapua.

It wasn't easy to break away from the travel group, especially from the bus driver, as we had some fun experiences. However, I really wanted to stay longer in Wellington because the city has so much to offer.

Wellington - Capital of New Zealand:
Arriving very late in the afternoon, I walked to the hostel and checked in. To my surprise, my room was empty, so I was sure I would have it all to myself for the night. Great! I then did some simple grocery shopping and went to bed early.
The next morning, I had breakfast and then walked to Mount Victoria relatively early. The mountain is in the middle of the city and offers a great view of Wellington. It was really beautiful up there. I also had some nice conversations with New Zealanders, so it was a successful morning for me. In the afternoon, I strolled around the city and then, despite my original plans, hiked up to the botanical garden because I preferred to invest $15 in food rather than taking the cable car. The view from there was breathtaking too, and I also met some other travelers up there. Afterwards, I went to buy noodles, avocado, and tomatoes and cooked myself a proper warm meal for the first time. I then got a roommate that day, but I also went to bed early again.
The next morning, around 10:00, I headed to the beach and spent some time reading there. Unfortunately, I lost track of time a bit, so I ended up with a sunburn in certain spots. But it wasn't too bad. I then went shopping a bit and walked along the beach promenade - which is beautiful and kilometers long in Wellington - until I walked back up Mount Victoria for the sunset. It was a nice ending.

Ferry and Abel Tasman:
The next morning, we were supposed to continue early. At 7:30, we drove with a new bus driver to the ferry terminal and "checked in" there. We all expected a small simple boat, but it was actually a huge ferry with luggage check and everything. The journey was beautiful through the fjords, and the weather was heavenly. Upon arrival on the South Island, we continued by bus to Abel Tasman. Abel Tasman, or the town of Kaiteriteri, is located on the north coast to the east and offers a beautiful backdrop. Although the hostel there was only moderately good, I slept in a dorm with 9 other people, the town was simply fantastic. I went straight to the beach upon arrival and spent some pleasant hours there before having dinner and then heading to the beach with a few others. Great evening. The next morning, we watched a beautiful sunrise together. Then we didn't leave until 11:30, so I took a little walk and booked some accommodations. Then it was off to Westport.

Westport - Glamping:
The hostel in Westport was very cool. It had surfer vibes and was very comfortable. I slept in larger tents with four other girls with our own beds. It had its charm. In the evening, our bus driver organized a bonfire for us on the beach. Everyone could bring their own alcohol, we listened to music and laughed. Then it was off to bed.
The next morning, some had surfing lessons. I briefly considered taking one too, but then decided against it because of my knee situation. Nevertheless, something was on the agenda: a little hike. We walked along the cliffs of the west coast for about 1h30, which was a beautiful experience. In the end, we were rewarded with a view of baby seals, and then it was on to the next destination.

Lake Mahinapua:
For me personally, and probably for most people, the most unnecessary stop. The hostel is in the middle of nowhere. The beach is 5 minutes away, but unfortunately, due to strong currents, swimming is not possible there. The lake was beautiful, but the outside temperature made swimming difficult. Kiwi Experience originally planned the stop as a party night. We were encouraged to buy costumes for a costume party with the motto: be something with your initial letter. V wasn't very easy, I decided on: Valentine's date. I just bought red lipstick. I found the whole concept a bit silly though because you only buy a costume to then throw it away. Others had very cool costume ideas though. Unfortunately, we didn't feel very welcome at the hostel, the hosts were very direct and harsh, so the party wasn't really lively. My evening ended at midnight after celebrating the birthday of one of my travel friends.

The next morning, it was already off to Franz Josef. But more on that next time!!!

Thank you for making it this far and I hope you'll continue to stay with me.

Goodbye,
Valentina