COVID Update:
- Auckland will move (down) to level 2 at midnight tonight and the rest of New Zealand will move (down) to level 1 at the same time. We continue to be inspired by the swift response of the NZ Government, the excellent public communication, and the consistent messaging.
Today after a research report-out call (Frances) and a visit to the DOC (Department of Conservation) Mount Aspiring Visitor Center (Jim), we packed a picnic lunch and drove a short distance to the south end of Lake Wanaka to the “Outlet track”, which runs along the Upper Clutha River which drains Lake Wanaka. We enjoyed an easy walk alongside the river, passing through trees and occasionally being passed by mountain bikes.
The river is a gorgeous turquoise blue, the result of glacial and snow-melt filtering when the water flows through Lake Wanaka. This, according to Wikipedia, is a rare characteristic for a high-volume river. The Clutha is the second longest river in New Zealand but the highest volume river and the swiftest. Further south, its waters are used to generate hydroelectric power.
After our walk we soaked our tired feet in the river. Most refreshing!
