After a poor nights sleep it took some time to get moving. Last night included Elizabeth just not going to sleep and keeping Alex awake. Anyway we managed to check out by 10 and headed on our way. The scenery was very Scottish feeling and lovely with lakes, mountains and pastures. We saw low lying clouds in the distance which we eventually worked out was a steam train, the Kingston Flyer. We passed a small station on our way so we stopped for the girls to see the train get steam up and head off. They both jumped when the whistle blew.
We then got back into the car and headed through the very overcast day to Te Anau, we did not stop until we reached there. When we arrived we stopped at the DOC visitor centre. While there we used the loo, looked at the displays and bought a few bits and bobs before having lunch next to the lake. There were a lot of ducks there and Alex was terrorised by them so tried to shoo them; Elizabeth liked them so was told Alex off for shooing.
We then filled up with petrol and drove the 120km to Milford Sound. We stopped at Mirror Lakes which were very cool and the reflections at the Te Anau end were magnificent. At one point on the drive I got really concerned about the height of the road until I realised I was at lake level and it was all reflection of the trees above. The scenery was stunning throughout the drive and despite the warnings the road was good with the exception of the last few km which was a tad high a twisty but still not too bad. We did not stop too often as we had out of it babies so we arrived in Milford at 3:30ish and checked into the lodge. The room was stunning and lovely with only one problem, three beds. I spoke to reception and they sorted out a cot from another hotel. We then walked to Milford to admire the view and have dinner at the Blue Duck. We are now back at the lodge snuggled up on the bed with the babies watching Shrek.

Alex has been taken with a few aspects of the trip and has fused cultures in new ways. Huka Haka Mickedee Mouse.