Day 3 dawned bright in Queenstown (our cozy Airbnb base from the rescheduled 2022 trip—Covid couldn’t stop us forever!). Our group of 6 piled into the car for a stunning circuit: Cardrona, Glenorchy, Wanaka (Crossfire & Puzzling World!), Devil’s Staircase. Road trip heaven! 🗺️

Morning Scenic Blitz: Cardrona to Glenorchy 🌄

Started with the twisty drive to Cardrona—home to the iconic Cardrona Hotel since 1863, whiskey tastings, and that legendary Bra Fence!

• Pushed on to Glenorchy (“Gateway to Paradise”) for LOTR vibes, swampy lagoons, and epic Dart River views—perfect photo stops amid the peaks.

Wanaka Wonders: Crossfire & Puzzling World, Adrenaline Finish 🏌️🪨🎳🌀

Looped via Lake Wanaka, ogling the insta-famous That Wanaka Tree.

• Dove into Crossfire Wanaka—highly recommended for clay shooting, archery, mini putt, rifle range, and golf driving. Staff made it epic for all skill levels—total adrenaline rush!

• Next, Puzzling World blew our minds with illusion rooms, the massive Great Maze, and tilted buildings that mess with reality. Holograms and optical tricks had us laughing non-stop—family fave! It was my third time but I am still amazed.. and puzzled! LOL

Tackled the legendary Devil’s Staircase on SH6—hairpin bends hugging Lake Wakatipu with sheer drops and jaw-dropping vistas. Heart-pumping!

South Island Adventure Day 1: Steampunk (Oamaru) to Turquoise Dreams (Lake Tekapo)! 🚀✨
South Island Adventure Day 2: Hooker Valley Hike & Mulan Magic! 🥾🏔️✨
South Island Adventure Day 4: Steamboat Splendor, Farm, Ice & Ferg Finale! 🚢🐑🧊🍔✨