Franz Josef to Christchurch
Lake Matheson
Yesterday, since we were running late, we passed a few sites. Now we are backtracking a bit to Lake Matheson which is said to be one of the most photographed views in New Zealand.
I am so glad we did this. Lake Matheson is not to be missed. Not only are the views wonderful 
but the walk is lovely through lush, mossy forest filled with ancient trees and gorgeous, large ferns. The air has a sweet, earthy smell to it. The uphill parts of the trail are manageable because they are interspersed with flat and downhill parts. The trail around the lake takes 1.5 hours.
Visit with a Large Eel
New Zealand has one of the world’s largest fresh water eels called the Longfin Eel. These eels can be found in Lake Matheson but are difficult to see in the marshy areas of the lake where they live. So I am very excited to actually see one of these prehistoric looking creatures that can live over 100 years and grow over 2 metres long. We are fortunate to see one close to the surface I love BBQ eel. Click here for a video of the eel.
Franz Josef Glacier
It is sunny out and this is the hottest day that we’ve had in New Zealand so far.
We now head back to Franz Josef to do the Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk.
The walk takes about 30 minutes. I love the huge trees 
that look like palm trees but when you look closer you can see that they are actually huge ferns. Stunning.
The glacier is magnificent however I am shocked at how quickly it is receding and at a faster and faster pace due to global warming. A photo from 1908 shows the front of the glacier almost at the lookout from where we take photos of the glacier. Now the glacier has receded well up the valley. We see signs of global warming all over the world but how much is being done about it?
Pakihi Walk Lookout
Our next stop is Pakihi Walk Lookout. It is a 30 minute walk but the first fifteen minutes is all uphill. There is a great view of the sea but unfortunately clouds block the view of Mt Cook.
The way down is much easier. We spot a pair of rare but friendly Bush Robins.
On to Christchurch
We leave the Lookout at 2:45pm. We still have a five hour drive to Christchurch ahead. Basically we are crossing the South Island from the west coast to the east coast through the mountains driving via the beautiful Arthur’s Pass.
We arrive in Christchurch about 7:30pm and grab a quick bite before heading to our Airbnb.