TRAVEL TALES | NEW ZEALAND
Waking up to the Quacking Sound of Ducks on Christmas Day
And seeing a lake reflecting the skies
It had been a peaceful night at the campsite. A lot less rain than expected came down and the gentle dropping lulled me into my sleep. Waking up now hours after the sky got bright, I can hear how busy the lake is already.
Families of ducks and geese are out and about floating across the flat body of water. The lake is reflecting perfectly the clouds scattered across the sky and the blue is shining above and below.
We’re watching another gathering of ducks come by and pick for breakfast delicacies in the water in front of our camp. Seeing them with their butts high in the air and tiny feet kicking helplessly for stability, I had to laugh a little. They are funny creatures, aren’t they?
After some porridge for breakfast, I head out again for a paddle. The lake is so different from last night. No rain dropping down on me and much better lighting surrounding the board.
Now only do I see how clear the water in the lake really is. I can see a few dozen trout zooming just below the surface and imagine how happy David would be catching one of them. But that won’t happen as one is only allowed to do fly fishing here.
I did this morning round on the paddleboard without carrying any camera with me. To immerse myself fully in nature and not be distracted by looking for just another photo opportunity.
By the time I get back to our camp, a light breeze had picked up. The wind was not strong but just enough to create small ripples on the water’s surface.
We’re taking down camp as it’s time to head home again. Crossing the MacKenzie Basin and then heading up Lindi’s Pass, I marvel at the road being lined by countless blooming lupine flowers. Another sign of summertime in New Zealand. Wildflowers are blooming everywhere.
I ask David to stop the car somewhere so that I can walk through a field of these purple and rose summer flowers and snap a few pictures while cars are zooming past just behind me.
While the flowers might seem calm, the sky is far from it. Strong upper winds are pulling moisture from all sides creating several cloud bursts on our drive home. Most of them we only see from a distance but we also drive through one which even creates some flooding on the roads. Nothing major, just temporary loads of rainfall.
And this was it. Our quick Christmas break away.
Read here about Christmas Eve:
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