30th January 2008

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30th January 2008
Today we drove out of Wanaka and into the Mount Aspiring National Park. We went up the West Matukituki river valley to Rasberry Creek and as we had no helicopter we had to walk up the Rob Roy stream to it's headwaters to view the Rob Roy glacier on Mount Rob Roy. After initially following the West Matukituki river we crossed to the other side by a three wire bridge to start climbing alongside the Rob Roy stream. We climbed to 3,400 feet, just above the tree line to an alpine meadow, which was delightful especially as we had had the track to ourselves all the way up. Whilst we stopped admiring the view some Keas came to visit us. These native NZ birds are like a large parrot and just as noisy. At one point one of the birds started to attack Dinah's rucksack. They have no fear of people as they are protected and see them as a source of handy snacks from picnics. The view of the glacier from below was stunning but the mountain summit was much higher around 8,550 feet. As It was a hot day and we are not that fit or equipped with ice axes and ropes we gave the ice climb a miss! As we set off back down the track the rest of NZ's tourists began to pass us on their way up. We were glad we had made an early start and had half and hour to enjoy the peace and quiet and the magnificent views alone.

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Comments

[amy]

stunning pics
Wow what amazing views, it all looks so stunning. You two will be fit as fiddles when you finish your trip with all the walking and fresh air you getting. Wish i was there!!

[Neal]

Fantastic photos
Very jealous looking at these wonderful photos. You are going to be super fit with all this hill walking.

[Lucy]

What an amazing country
It looks like a walkers paradise with another exciting or stunning view round each corner! Congratulations whoever got Mum in a picture! And Mum you are looking very fit and healthy much better than the gaunt faril person that left the UK! And its good to see Dad striding ahead as usual! Lucy

[Corrie]

hobbits and great scenery
Those are some stunning shots! I'd almost forgotten how beautiful Wanaka is. Do you feel a bit like you're trekking through the Lord of the Rings movie? - Bob I didn't realise you were a strider (as Lucy says) does that mean you and Dad are both striding ahead to set the pace? :)