We checked into our camp, the Creeksyde Holiday Park, as soon as we arrived in Queenstown. We took advantage of the amenities, recycling or tossing the trash we had collected, showering and getting ready, all those luxuries we take advantage of ;).
Once thoroughly refreshed, we walked into town, getting a feel for busy Queenstown and stopping by the lake for a delicious Indian dinner that left me completely stuffed.
Next on the itinerary was an early Valentine’s Day surprise for Anthony. I had booked Onsen months ago (which is necessary to get a reservation) for a very bougie evening, which is quite unlike us. But, when you’re living in a minivan, sometimes you need a night of luxury.
So, our complimentary shuttle came and picked us up in town to drive us out to our appointment. There, we were led to our private hot tub with a beautiful view out over the Shotover River canyon.
Wine and dark chocolate were set up next to the tub for us. I was still stuffed from dinner, but gluttony kicked in and I managed my share of the chocolate and wine.
After an hour of relaxation, we put our robes and slippers on and were led up to the massage room for an hour-long therapeutic couples’ massage.
Barely functioning after all this, they sent us back on our way in the shuttle, with some vegan cheesecakes, a CHIA juice, a peppermint tea, and some sparkling mineral water.
It was a bit jarring returning to our campervan in the cramped campground, but I slept very well that night.
The following morning, we were supposed to head to Mt Cook, but weather changed our plans, and instead, we booked a late morning paragliding trip. I opted for the highest launch point, hoping for aerobatics.
My guide and I were the last to run off the cliff, and the thermals kicked in giving us some extra height. We soared around the cliffs, and once safely away, he had me steer for awhile, and then took back over to do some flips while I shrieked with joy.
We sailed on down to the ground, meeting back up with the rest of the group, and then we were shuttled back to town. The whole thing happened very quickly, much less of an ordeal as when we did it in Colombia (but also not quite as pretty).
Anthony and I grabbed some lunch in town and then went on a scenic drive to the town of Glenorchy, following along the gorgeous lake almost the entire way.
A quick stop for coffee, and we experienced tiny Glenorchy for all of 10 minutes. And then we turned around and drove back, enjoying the views once more.
Our campground was a beautiful 20-minute detour off the main road. We passed a pond with black swans and ducks, golden hills in the background, and then we arrived at lovely Moke Lake.
It was a hot day, and while the water was chilly, it wasn’t too bad, so I changed and hopped in.
Swimming and sunbathing brought me back to life, so we decided to walk around the lake after that, a journey that ended up taking around an hour and a half.
We cooked dinner, and enjoyed the lovely evening by the lake before turning in.
