KiwiJournalz: Queenstown

We were able to spend a few days in Queenstown the first week of December at a retreat arranged by Mike Higgins of Family Search. We were able to associate with the other Senior Missionaries serving in the archives in Christchurch. It was wonderful to talk shop with them and share experiences and techniques. One thing we discovered on this trip is there is no shortage of beautiful blue lakes and rivers on the South Island.

We stopped beside a river near Alexandra on the way to Queenstown. The water was so clear and beautiful.

We had easy access to the river at a riverside camp ground.

Been a long time since we did any rock-skipping.

As we continued driving we discovered the source of the river water. It is hard to concentrate on driving with such spectacular scenery all around.

When we got to Queenstown we wasted no time in catching a cruise on Lake Wakatipu. It was a very relaxing way to see some of the sights

The mountain range beside Queenstown is called The Remarkables. I can only imagine how beautiful they are in the winter when covered with snow.

Several different jet boat rides to choose from.

We were all booked into the same motel in Queenstown. Late Tuesday afternoon we met with everyone and went out for a fantastic dinner. Back at the motel we got to be the hosts, as our accommodation was a two bedroom unit with a large main area we could use for our meetings.

Our unit was upstairs with a private glass-enclosed deck facing Lake Wakatipu. Thanks, Mike!!

Front Row: Sister Debbie Edward, Sister Billie Ward & Sister Carol Tasker. Back Row: Mark Kelly (Family Search Pacific Area Manager - Australia), Elder Bart Edward, Elder Gary Ward, Elder Tom Tasker, and Mike Higgins (Family Search Pacific Area Manager - New Zealand

Wednesday morning we got to know each other a little more. We then set out on an afternoon adventure, which included a gondola ride up to the Stratosphere Restaurant for lunch. There are so many things to do in Queenstown..... most water related..... go figure.

Amazing view of Queenstown from the Statosphere. Lake Wakatipu stretches for miles in several directions

Stratosphere Restaurant from below. They have bungy jumping up there, para-sailing, bike trails (take your bike up on the gondola).

It is so much fun to share these adventures together.

All you can eat buffet with a view..... and seafood..... priceless.

West side of Lake Wakatipu looking south.

Another view of Lake Wakatipu.

The Y on the mountain made Sister Edward feel at home.

View of where Lake Wakatipu ends and the river begins. You can go one of those jet boat rides that will take you under that bridge and down the river. It looked pretty intense.


We visited the Kawarau Bridge bungy site. It is where bungy jumping all began. We got there in time to see one jumper before they closed for the day. I wonder if Elder Edward would have tried?