New Zealand days 3 and 4

Day 3 – Most of this day was spent driving from Christchurch to Wanaka. Along the way we stopped at Tekapo to see a cool old church set against the backdrop of an amazing Caribbean-blue alpine lake and snow-capped mountains. We also drove through a lot of wide open valley that was mostly filled with sheep. It was fairly wasted-looking land that seemed as though it would have once been covered with trees, so that seemed somewhat of a shame. There were several more bright blue lakes along the way. Our hotel room had a gorgeous mountain- and lake-filled view.

Day 4 – Another gorgeous day. Perfect for driving out to a nearby mountain/ski hill and going paragliding (they called it flying). When we arrived at the base of the mountain, we were met by 4 tough-looking New Zealand guys (one of whom we had just watched fly down the mountain by himself doing flips). We piled into their van and raced up this mountain. I've come to realize that the van rides to things are just as exciting if not more than the actual activity. This gravel switchback road was no exception. We made it to the launch point and after some brief instruction, Adam took off with his pilot. Adam immediately soared up a few hundred feet. The wind conditions were really good. I then took off with my pilot. It took probably 10 minutes to spiral our way down. It was pretty smooth and the view was indescribable. Much less scary than skydiving. I would definitely do it again (although it wasn't cheap, so I think it will be a while). Altogether a very good adventure. Afterwards we drove to Queenstown which I already do not like. Too many people and everything is too expensive. Tomorrow morning early we leave for our Routeburn Track trek. We'll be gone 3 days and I'm sure we'll have lots to tell after that.