The Ice Road

As there is no road immediately North out of Fiordland, the trip yesterday brought us inland, describing a big 'U'. So today's ride was all about getting back across onto the West coast, to head north. And what a beauty! Scorching hot day and clear blue skies - and this is NZ autumn

Not sure which courtier's taking responsibility for the filthy weather on the Royals NZ visit, imagine he's in the tower already

Regular pattern of wide valleys interrupted by stonking great mountains. In Milford, the fiord (it's not actually a Sound) and it's mountains are sharp and jagged, either hewn by glacier action or chopped by the axe of a mighty ancient god - depending on wether you're listening to a geologist or Maori chief. Up here the mountains look softer, more benign, wrapped up in their rainforest blankets

However, the rides up and down, equally as steep. Just time enough to recover with a breathtaking lake or river crossing - then down the gears to chase up the next one. Couldn't take many pictures today, because I couldn't take many pictures today. Too busy driving! Road also seemed to ride differently - much harder on the suspension (and me) Perhaps the substrate or method of construction varies across the country

Did jump off once to take in the Blue Pools walk, a world renown, must see highlight, in this wilderness region. Very beautiful

Strong smell of ozone suggested the coast was close - then suddenly the rainforest finally opened up to reveal the Tasman sea. Ride up the shoreline was sensational. The road eventually winding back inland to avoid the huge glaciers blocking our way. Staying tonight at Franz Joseph glacier. At 19km, the closest any glacier at this latitude, has advanced to the coast

From the snow capped mountain range ahead, looks like tomorrow's going to be another goodun!