Rob Roy Glacier, Matukutiki Valley

On our last day full day in Wanaka we we're treated to a day filled with sunshine, beautiful walks and delicious ice cream.

We took a trip out to Rob Roy Glacier, which involves crossing 7 fords and driving 30km down a gravel track to reach.   The Matukituki valley road follows huge glaciated plaines with deer, cattle and sheep grazing on the vast land, surrounded by alpine bush and snow capped peaks,   It really is like a scene from a postcard that depicts the real New Zealand. 

The walk to the glacier follows a narrow track beside a gorge with crystal clear water, whilst up ahead a huge white bright glacier dominates the head of the valley.  Just before sitting down to eat our lunch, we heard a loud noise and looked up to see a huge pile of ice fall off the edge of the glacier, which looked like a huge waterfall cascading off the side of the cliff edge. 

Walking back down the valley after lunch, we stopped to fill up our water bottle with ice cold glaciated water and enjoyed listening to the Tui's and Bell Birds singing in the trees.

Returning back to town, we stopped off at Relishes Cafe to tick off the last cafe in our coffee shop tour of the town.  Since arriving in Wanaka we have attempted to visit all the coffee shops, bars and eateries in town. So when we've not been skiing or had a "close day", we've mainly been eating and drinking our way around town!   It has added a few pounds to my waistline and made  a dint in the bank account, but has been great fun to explore all the new places.