Lake Pukaki

The last day of any adventure is usually filled with a little despair – the trip is coming to an end. But I still have 24 hours to reach my destination and even though some of the roads have been washed away or covered by landslides, I plan on making every minute count. After cutting across the alluring green Canterbury Plains towards Queenstown, I reach the wild heart of the Mackenzie Basin, an iconic expanse of glacier-fed alpine lakes and golden tussock stretched beneath an endless veil of pollution-free sky. A shimmering blue jewel set into a grand montane playground, Lake Pukaki holds some of the bluest water I’ve ever seen. The sparkle is caused by sunlight hitting extremely fine rock deposits, known as glacial flour, sending brilliant turquoise and blue hues into the atmosphere. Embarking on one last activity to close out my trip, I hire a stand-up paddleboard, chuck it in the back of the Gladiator and head to a locals’ secret spot, where I have the lake all to myself. I paddle out to explore the coves and beaches hidden away from the traditional tourist trail and arrive back just in time to watch a magical sunset over the lake. As I pack my Gladiator ready for the journey home, I realise I couldn’t have asked for a better way to finish my trip. The South Island of NZ is undoubtedly one of the most scenic and diverse places I’ve ever visited. Having travelled to nearly 100 countries, I am yet to discover a destination that offers such a thrilling sense of adventure with unmatched serenity. If you have the right gear and the right attitude, this is a part of the world that is ready to be discovered, rewarding intrepid explorers who are brave enough to venture into the unknown.

“I hire a stand-up paddleboard, chuck it in the back of the Gladiator and head to a locals’ secret spot. I have the lake all to myself.”