Day 7: Frans Josef - Wanaka
Driving out of Frans Josef we stopped for one more view of the glacier. Making our way to the town of Wanaka, we stopped at Mathison Lake, Ships Creek Beach, Thunder Creek Falls, Lake Hawea & then arrived at Lake Wanaka.
Frans Josef Glacier
Mathison Lake
Mathison Lake is the most photographed lake in New Zealand, creating some of the most famous iconic shots of the country. It was created by glaciers 14,000 years ago and, when smooth, perfectly reflects Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, the highest and 2nd highest peaks respectively. There is a fantastic loop trek with many view points to stop and take your own post worthy pictures!!
Ships Creek Beach
The perfect place to stop for a “bring your own” lunch.
Thunder Creek Falls & Lake Hawea
Wanaka
Wanaka, the best little town in NZ according to Shocks, is a seaside town also know for skiing in the winter. Surrounded by the Southern Alps, the backdrop of the mountains while standing on the lake is beautiful!!
The Wanaka Tree
The thing that Wanaka has become the most famous for is it’s “Wanaka Tree.” The willow tree started life as a fence post at least 77 years ago. Wanaka artist and writer Gwenda Rowlands, 85, is a keeper of local history and remembers the fence line from 1939, when she first visited it in a little dinghy her father built for her and her older brother. The tree has become famous from a photographer posting a picture on instagram and the rest is history. Everyone wants the money shot of the tree.
I must admit, I certainly wasn’t going to pass up the opportunity to grab a great pic of the lone tree in the lake, now the most photographed tree in New Zealand.
I’d love to hear from you…which of these is your favorite?
