Wanaka, NZ 3.12.13

Full on B&B breakfast courtesy of our host, Helen. Fresh tomatoes with eggs and bacon, yummy yogarts, fresh peaches, homegrown rhubarb, local peaches, and homemade muesli (she's had so many requests for the recipe that it's now on her website - www.dlavande.co.nz)

Helen's been ever so helpful rearranging our fiord travel plans, telling us the best restaurants within walking distance, suggesting "tramps" for us to walk. She and hubby bought a mobile trailer and spent an entire year traveling around NZ so they ARE the NZ info center.

First we hung our wash out on the line in the lovely backyard with: a view, a vegetable garden, fruit trees, lots of lavender and aromatic roses galore.

Then we went for a tramp along the Clutha River.

The Clutha River begins where the Wanaka Lake drains. Clear glacier-blue-water rivers are few in the world. This river exists because the lake filters out the glacial silt, so the river is a stunning aqua blue and crystal clear.

James near river's beginning

Our days here have been rain free. All of NZ is in an extreme drought. Great for tourists. Not so for farmers. As dog days of summer give way to fall, the afternoon sky stands out as much as the surrounding landscape.

Perfect spot to check email.

All's well back home so let's go have the best scones we've ever tasted.