Ohau to Takapo

I had a short drive today.  It took me a little less than two hours to get to Tepako. It turns out its name has been misspelled for more than 100 years. Takapō, meaning "to leave in haste at night," is the traditional Māori name given to the lake. 

According to the plaque, "the monument was erected by the runholders of the Mackenzie County and those who also appreciate the value of the Collie dog without the help of which the grazing of this mountain country would be impossible." The plaque was erected in 1968. In the 1850s, runholders leased extensive areas of pasture from the government for their sheep flocks, paying annual licenses of no more than £2 per acre assessed per head of livestock. I suspect some of those families are pretty wealthy by now.

With its renowned Church of the Good Shepherd, pristine blue waters, and crystal clear night skies, Takapo is a favorite chill spot for many New Zealanders. Opened in 1935, the Church of the Good Shepherd is the only church in Lake Takapō and continues to be a place of worship for local residents. It is non-denominational.

The planet Pluto.

There are informational films about Pluto numerous times every day.

Takapo is known for its beautiful turquoise waters.  The first people to enter what is now known as the Mackenzie Basin were the Māori.  The tribe was in Tapako to gather food, and something upset them, so they left in the middle of the night. It was unusual for the Māoris to travel at night. I could not find any information on what "upset" them.

It looked stormy, so I decided against a mountain climb in favor of a trail partway around the lake. Every step provided awe-inspiring views. There was a fairly stiff breeze which kept the temperature down to a pleasant level.

I was in for a pleasant surprise when I checked into my accommodations.  I have a very modern tiny house with a separate bedroom and full kitchen.  It even has AIR Conditioning.  OMG!  Praise the Lord.

As you can see, I have a large balcony and an incredible view.

The view.

And the view!  I was so excited to have this beautiful place to stay that I walked into the village of Takapo for takeout. It was an easy walk. I had my heart set on Ramen from a Japanese Ramen restaurant, but it was closed until 6:00.  I didn't want to do anything but enjoy my little house, so I ordered a chicken ciabatta from the Greedy Cow minutes before it closed at 4:00. They had a line out the door all afternoon so I figured it must be a good place.  It was one of the best sandwiches I had ever had.  So nothing was lost as I sat on my balcony and watched the world go by.  I have three nights here, so I may still get my ramen.  Tomorrow, weather permitting, I intend to tramp (don't you love that word - so New Zealand) to the summit of Mt John.

Until tomorrow - may your accommodations be as favorable as mine!