Textures of the Cromwell Skyline: Desert mountains, cultivated orchards and forests; and wine vines.
So finally I am getting around to posting a blog about the modern Cromwell town itself. This is not a big town. It only has a population of 3,500. It is known to be the town furthest from the sea. It has a fascinating history and a most barren yet texturous landscape. It is very dry. I noticed right away. In Fiji I was drinking 3 litres of water a day just to replace the water I was sweating out but I rarely had to moisturize or worry about my skin being dry. Here I drink at least 2 litres of water a day and my skin constantly is needing moisturizing and still it is not enough. Sadly dry climates and skin make for wrinkles. So much for the gains in Fiji.
Well this picture should be able to speak for itself.
However it has been cooler here. I didn’t actually bring the right clothing for it, but I have been managing. Also I have been able to get back to running and have been doing lots of walking so I am making up for the losses of physical activity I experienced in Fiji. Yesterday, I thought I would take the lakeside trail to Bannockburn, the nearby town. Well unfortunately I started off a little late and by the time I crossed the bridge to get close to the town, I couldn’t figure out how much further I had, and given the late hour I turned around to head back. I asked Linda how much further I had had, and she told me only about 500 m. Can you believe it! Argh. Well I had walked/run about 20 km yesterday so I was absolutely knackered by evening.
The easier part of the lakeside trail to Bannockburn
Well maybe I will try again fresh and early next time, when I return from my little walkabout I am going on as of Sunday. Anyway, back to Cromwell. It is a sweet town, surrounded by wineries and orchards and mountains. It is spotless – I have not seen any litter. There are green spaces and greenways throughout the town and everyone is lovely and friendly. It is about 45 minutes from Queenstown and more affordable. The other thing I like about it, and New Zealand in general, is that there are lots and lots of hikes and walks. Afterall, New Zealand is known as the nation of trampers! (that is what they call hiking). So I am quite enjoying my sojourn here with my good friend and my time to chill, exercise, gather my thoughts and get prepared for my next journey.
One of two big honkin' Wellingtonian Trees that were planted in 1989 and are just down the street from Linda's. Clearly I am consistently amazed by big honkin' trees!
Obviously you have a thing about trees – the ones you have taken photographs of all look very old. Glad you are enjoying your stay with Linda and getting lots of exercise.
Yup – love trees, especially the big ol’ ones. Think about it. They don’t get to run away from their problems, they have to stand there and take it and those that have been there for a long time have seen a lot of activity and history. I often give trees a hug, it is very comforting. They have an ancient energy.
Am thoroughly enjoying your travels and feel I am going along with you. Look forward to your next place of call. New Zealand really must be a lovely plasce to visit.
Thanks Aunt Vi. It is quite lovely. It really is an exceptional country and given its end of the world status, the Kiwis are so self-sufficient and creative.