Alarm woke us at 05:45, checking the mountains I held no hope we would be flying and the answer was no, flight cancelled again. Tears, all gutted. So cars packed all,ready for the road we have an early start. We popped back for crumpets and coffee then set off about 0740 to Wanaka. The lady at the motel got up,specially to see if we wanted our keys back as we did ask if could have the rooms post check out on our return from Glacier but it was a no. So we had to empty rooms. So giving us keys back was a good touch. 

 The rain starts again and we didn't leave the clinging clouds until we reached the coast line at Knights Point. The sea was crashing against beach at the lookout which has a car park for the few minutes look at the view. White horses rating the Tasman Sea.

Before this we hit a salmon farm as Becky's camera battery wasn't charged, so we bought a coffee whilst it charging! Not sure it would be open as still on 08:30! But appeared to be popular spot for the campavan and Chinese tourists. 

We continue on along the coastal road to Ship Creek. Again large car park where there is a 20 min walk along board walks with a couple of lookout points for the beach and a wetland area. We then did the walk along the estuary as we would call it view and the swamp,lands. 

As all hungry from early start we eat our lovingly prepared sandwiches made by Papa Lowe, crisps and chocolate battling against the wind at the picnic spot! 

Back on road we continue along the coast to .Haast Beach and then head inland along Haast Pass. The sub tropical plants are still abundant but the snowy high mountain peaks Start appearing now that we are away from the clinging clouds. 

Its around noon now, probably, not sure as I rarely look at my watch! The mountains either side of the road and glorious river fly high. The colour of the water is just amazing. 

Roaring Billy Falls is the first stop, 15 mins walk with car park leading to the river bed. The cascading water flowing into the gorgeous blue Haast river. 

Second stop Thunder Creek Fall again with car park and a short 3 min walk. This waterfall was like a flute high up just tumbling out of the trees,tumbling into,the river. 

Glad I came prepared with the insect repellent as the sand flies were vicious. Thought this fall was rather spectacular. 

After the photo shoots we head back on the road to short ride again to Gates of Haast, a high bridge where the river changes to rapids. Parking on side of road and you walk down to view the river. 

Next stop,Fantail Falls. Again parking with A 2 min walk along boardwalks to the river bed. We cross it to photo shoot the fall and battle skimmers. 

This was last stop,for waterfalls but there has been plenty to see along the road as we drive deep into the Pass.  

Next stop,are Blue Pools where I have read that people swim in the stunning waters. So we all gather our towels and costumes and head along the walk, 15 mins to the first swing bridge. And boy did they swing! The water from the glaciers is just stunning colour. 

There are are a few people congregated on the river bed with a couple jumping off the second swing bridge. Costumes on we head down to,the waters edge. Tom is straight in swimming, I out my toe in and out very quickly. The pain of the cold is just too much to take!! I kept trying but too painful!! Russ went in and Tom a second time and Rob joined the boys. They didn't stay in long! 

Back on the road we continue to Wanaka where we are staying at the Asure Brooklands Motel. Again very well equipped. This motel had very spacious rooms with settee, dining table and fully equipped kitchen. It is a 3 min walk from the lake front. 

The road trip from Haast Pass takes you to the northern edge of Lake Wanaka still on highway 6. The lake is a stunning Glacier blue colour. The road after a shortish time then takes you along the waters of a stunning lake, Lake Hawea. This really was a stunning ride along the west coast of the lake. It is tucked among hills and mountains with an amazing blue colour making it one of the most beautiful lakes in the Southern Island. It is 410m, 1345ft deep in places and is separated from Lake Wanaka by a narrow 22 mile isthmus, known as the "neck".

Russ cooks us a fab meal which we have bought with us in insulator bags. Chicken stayed frozen even after all day journey!  

The rooms had grassed area area where we all,sat bout in the sun chilling and then walked into town for a drink. Only one as all very tired from a very early start. 

Needless S to say, we slept well!