Last training ride

Jesse has his passenger license now, this was a beautiful day after a storm the week before he 'went live'.

This is looking south towards Paradise.

'China mans hole' with Mt Earnslaw in the background. I really like the rocks at this spot - lots of colours and interesting patterns. This is as far as they have been taking the boats at the moment because of the low winter water level.

The boat is packed up with fun-yaks for weight.

Fun-yaking is a really cool day trip they offer - jet boat up the river and 'fun-yak' down. (in case you are wondering they are blow up kayaks)

Paradise

No wonder its probably the favourite filming spot in New Zealand! Paradise is gorgeous...

Our friends have just taken in the role of caretakers at this amazing spot just up the valley from Glenorchy. Great place to go and take a load off - there are cute little huts linked by a maze of tracks, no electricity but open fires/coal ranges to keep visitors cosy. Lots of history to the property, and ofcourse an impressive homestead (I forget when it was built) to go with it all.