Spring Winter Summer all in one

I arrived in early spring two months ago, however, in the last couple of weeks winter has had it's last hurrah with snowfalls and summer has arrived early, with some hot days that have seen people swimming in the lake and cooling off in the 15 degree (celsius) temperatures near the shore line.  

A lot has been packed into this last 4 weeks, with a weekend in Dunedin exploring, a night in Invercargill to attend a job interview plus another interview in Alexandra (on the same day of course!), a night in Queenstown to attend a workshop, starting my summer job and an unexpected brief and delightful visit with a dear friend from Australia. 

I always enjoy the drive from Wanaka to Dunedin with the many changes in landscape along the way. Lakes, alps, orchards, forests, rocky outcrops, rolling green hills, winding mountainous roads, beauty in some shape or form every where you look. Being springtime, there was the addition of wildflowers along the roads, as well as flowering trees and shrubs covering the hill sides. The temptation to pull over and take photos here there and everywhere is strong!

I have to say the little town of Roxburgh has the most impressive public toilets I've ever used. The convenience block is situated on the main road through town and you're met with detailed stainless steel sculptures that share some of the area's history. 

The facilities themselves are ultra-modern with automatic sliding and locking doors. A voice then tells you the door will remain locked for 10 minutes, however, you just have to press a button to get out should you be finished earlier. And then... there is music!!!  I kid you not! I'm unsure if it's to relax you, entertain you, mask noises, or distract you - what ever the reason, I found this quirky addition to the whole public convenience experience rather entertaining. Oh and the music playing was none other than 'What the world needs now, is love sweet love... '

Back on the road, there is more impressive scenery as you drive through the Manuka Gorge.  On the other side you will find the Mt Stuart Reserve which has a beautiful rest place and walking tracks for those who like the exercise. 

Dunedin itself has much to offer. I stayed in the heart of the city and found an awesome little organic shop that had a fabulous range of everything you could think of. I came away with ingredients for making bath salts at a better price than I'd been sourcing online. 

The beautiful historic Dunedin Railway Station is worth a visit just to check out the architecture and the gardens. Upstairs in the building is an art gallery that's well worth a visit. It's very easy to spend an hour wandering around the exhibits displaying the talents of local artists and is one of my favourite places in Dunedin.

There is also a fantastic Saturday morning farmers market held at the station that is filled with locally grown and/or made produce and foods. It's not a huge  market but it's perfect for getting your fresh supplies for the week and there are plenty of delicious goodies on offer to tempt the taste buds as you wander the market.

The landscape all around Dunedin is gorgeous, regardless of which direction you choose to go. An hour north, you will find some beautiful beaches and the incredible Moeraki Boulders. Photos don't really do justice to the size and magnificence of these huge boulders that lie along this particular stretch of coastline, they have to be seen and experienced in all their rugged beauty. 

There were a lot more tourists down on the beach this trip and sadly, many did not appear to have a great deal of respect for their surroundings as they were more interested in climbing or standing on the boulders to pose for photographs. 

Just south of the boulders, is a short drive to Shag Point where there are more rocky outcrops along the coastline. Numerous bird and sea life reside in the area and it's a beautiful quiet place to feel at one with nature. 

For me, a trip to Dunedin is not complete without a drive out along the Otago Peninsula. I love this winding stretch of road along the water front heading in or out of Otago Harbour. Dotted along the coastline are little shacks that sit out over the water and there are walkways in places, with a few seats to rest and enjoy the views.

Once again, I took my time driving back to Wanaka. I'm not in a big rush these days and enjoy stopping here and there as I choose, usually to take pics but sometimes just to explore the surroundings a little.

I arrived back in Wanaka from my Dunedin trip to a dinner party my house mate was having and good heavens, can that house mate of mine cook! She certainly has flair with food and the dishes she creates are superb. This particular night was a gourmet feast starting with crayfish and lychee salad, followed by crayfish chowder, a grapefruit lemon and mint sorbet to cleanse the palate, then slow cooked moroccan boneless lamb neck (melt in your mouth delicious!) served with couscous and roast kumara and baked black peaches served with ice cream and a ginger biscuit. Are you drooling yet? 

Have to say I'm thoroughly loving this New Zealand adventure so far! More to come...