We arrived in Wanaka and were thrilled to discover that Arthur had rented a gorgeous home where we'd be staying for six (yes, six!) nights. That's the longest we've stayed anywhere since leaving Breckenridge back in July 2015. The house had an open kitchen, living room and large deck, with 360 degree views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It was a very comfortable place and we wish we had taken photos of it! 

Early on in the Wanaka week, Joyce and Arthur's son Rick and his friend Dennis joined us. So we'd be six people for the next few weeks until our group dissolved somewhere in the middle of NZ's north island. 

Wanaka is a cool town surrounded by epic nature. We had tons of outdoor adventure activities planned for the week. 

Now, here's where I have to break some bad news: I (Grace) have been stricken with what seems to be turf toe, a ridiculous injury that's as annoying as its name. Even though only a small part of my body is affected, I'm unable to walk without limping and definitely not going to be hiking until it heals. 

So, I'll have to turn over some of the upcoming gallery description duties to Mike, since he was actually there! Hopefully I get over this injury quickly and am back on the mountains in a few days. Stay tuned. 

Mt Iron Hike: This hike was right around the corner from the house. It offered great views over Wanaka. 

Roys Peak Hike: 4,200 ft in elevation gain was worth it for great views at the pin-point summit. 

Rob Roy Glacier Hike: We (minus Grace) waited for good weather to embark on the biggest hike we had planned for the week. It was as beautiful as we had heard, with glaciers, waterfalls, blue water and lots of sheep and cows on the way in.