Wonderful Wanaka

November 8, 2011

I’ve done this before and yet need to write about it again. For a start, I didn’t need to reset my watch: noon means it’s midnight. That’s the easy part but the cherry trees are in blossom, the tulips and daffodils are in their full glory and lambs are being born. That just seems wrong because 28 hours ago I saw the leaves falling from the trees as quickly as autumn steamed in. What hasn’t changed is the cleanliness of the Queenstown air as I finally terminate my long journey and am able to stretch my legs, the deep blue of the sky and of course wonderful Wanaka where the easy going Kiwis are still enjoying life as much as possible.

It was good to see my granddaughter Eva and her parents. They look well and content and I understand why they want to live here. Eva a little wary for the first week but now accepting that Pops is not really as big a rival as she might at first have thought.

Wonderful Wanaka

A fortnight passes quickly despite full days, including  the demolishment of a house, the making and selling of toys, a journey with the old Alfa to Haast and the best breakfast in the world served outside in the café at Tarras.  The visit would not have been complete without a final dinner at the White House. I’ve been wondering why I like the place so much. The food is excellent but I’ve had better, and so with the wine but it must be the owner Peter and Liz, our hostess for the night, who have the ability to make you feel as if you are a guest in their own home.

Wonderful Wanaka 2

And I reflect, as I sit in yet another airport lounge, about how lucky I am to have such great colleagues who keep my business running smoothly and efficiently so that I’m able to travel to these amazing places, secure in the knowledge that things back home are all in order and my customers, on whom my company relies, are in safe and experienced hands. Thanks guys!

So onwards.  In 24 hours I shall be back in Surrey and while I shall miss my children in Wanaka I will see them soon again. I can’t wait.

Vincent van Walt

Auckland, 8th November 2011

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