Queenstown,
New Zealand
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Went White Water Rafting on the Shotover River. Early start but well worth it. Our bus went up Skippers Canyon and through the freezing level which had come down to 500m overnight, we were dressed in wet suits in the snow! Our team had 2 americans - pain in arse - and our bunch, Chief (our expert guide) and a newby from the rafting place - she was a good laugh though. Chief was cool and brought us all back without a dunking although there were some close calls, we all felt fairly secure. Rapids heavy at a couple of places with names like the Toilet and minus. There was a rock tunnel at the end which gave us a false sense of security as there was a major rapid at the end of it. Trace didnt notice us all sitting on the floor of the boat and merrily sat up on top wondering why she felt insecure - it was cold though - frozen brains? Back to base after rafting for sauna, hot shower followed by tea and hot sausage rolls.
Back into Queenstown and up the Skyline Gondola. We then found the LUGE!! This is a concrete track with carts on that you race - not that we are competitive. Rich won the first race but couldnt get past Trace on the second. Fi was sedately bringing up the rear - admiring the view!! All was great laugh however.
Back to Rich & Fi's hotel room for spag bol and wine (had to order extra chair as we were only allowed 3). Photos of the rafting were taken on a waterproof film camera so you can see these later...
