My windshield wipers were mostly on as I drove to Mt Cook. The rivers and streams were raging. But still, it was an uplifting journey from Christchurch to the mountain. I left my hotel after breakfast, relying on the pleasant voice of my GPS to get me there.
Yesterday, on my flight from Rotorua, my seatmate Murry, suggested some small-town stops that I should make along the way. My wonderful GPS guide had other ideas, however. So, I “abandoned” her, checked a paper map, and took the route Murray suggested. Glad I did.
It took about 5-1/2 hours, and even in the rain, it was another great experience. The rain really demands a different focus. I also had a lot of thinking time. Here are some of my observations so far:
- Not only does my GPS beep at me for speeding, but now my car beeps at me if I cross the line.
- More and more sheep are appearing. Might even be more sheep in New Zealand than cows.
- I have been impressed with the forest management. The tree farming is quite extensive and well done. And it appears that clear cuts are regenerated almost immediately.
- Many homes and buildings are roofed with metal. Very few shingles.
- Town cemeteries are quite prominent, are well kept, and have beautiful headstones.
I finally arrived at Mt Cook. There was no evidence of it because of the clouds, but I knew I was close. This is where Hillary got his start. More about that tomorrow.