This is the first of two visits to this stunningly beautiful place. We were both completely blown away by the scenery and by the emotions it creates. We stayed at a campsite right on the lake and the skies are just breath taking at night. We walked along the edge of the lake to the world famous Church of the Good Shepherd which of course was crawling with busloads of tourists! You aren’t allowed to take photos inside the church but that doesn’t stop people trying. We went inside to sit and reflect. Behind the altar is a window that looks out over the lake and snow capped mountains. This view alone is enough to remind you just how small you are in the grand scheme of things and whether you believe or not, makes you feel closer to God.

To get into town from here, you cross a very beautiful modern bridge which takes you over the bluest water – very similar to the blue at Hokitika Gorge. It is that colour due to the glacial rock flour suspended in the water. We had a fantastic drive up the right hand side of the lake, right to end where we parked up and had lunch as it was so beautiful.