Wanaka

Diamond Lake, near Wanaka.  For just a short, steep huff puff...only 400 metres...you can hike to this peaceful valley and see the mountains and clouds reflected in the lake.  A real beauty spot.

This is the view of Lake Wanaka from the middle of the town of the same name.  The resemblance to Okanagan Lake in southern British Columbia, and to Lake Chelan in central Washington, is amazing!  The climate and scenery are similar; wineries abound in all places; and they're all absolutely beautiful.  The woman who runs my motel has been to Lake Okanagan and she has the same impression.

A quiet valley near Diamond Lake, less than 20 km from Wanaka.  Great light hereabouts.

Mount Aspiring rises 10 thousand feet, showing glaciers while folks waterski on Lake Wanaka.