Frolicking in Fiordland National Park NZ

Mar 27

Our 4th day of being at sea introduced us to New Zealand with sensational scenes of the Sounds (technically fjords).  Three sounds were explored today and we were awestruck by each one of them. 

Fiordland National Park is in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. "For first-time visitors and lifelong natives alike, Milford Sound is one of the most immediately breathtaking places in New Zealand and one of the country's top attractions. Called the 8th wonder of the world by Rudyard Kipling, this 14-mile-long fjord is dominated by beautiful Mitre Peak and calmed by gorgeous waters that mirror the sheer peaks surrounding them." Though we entered in pelting rain, brisk wind, and little calmness, it did not take much imagination to figure out what Kipling was referencing. Wow.








Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second largest of the New Zealand fjords. It was named by Captain Cook because he was doubtful that he would be able to sail his ship back out of the sound. There numerous waterfalls that had us oohing and aahing all afternoon.




These were our FAVORITE PHOTOS of the day! We crack ourselves up!




We concluded our day in Dusky Sound, one of the most complex of the many fjords on this coast. It is also one of the largest, 24 miles in length and 5 miles wide at its widest point. It is also one of the most beautiful, with numerous wooded islands and inlets. Its beauty was accentuated with the sunshine that visited intermittently.

It was given its name by Captain Cook, who sailed past the fjord on his first voyage, in 1770, as evening was falling. In 1773, on his second voyage, he sailed into the sound and spent over 6 weeks overhauling his ship, the Resolution, and taking in supplies.




We even met Temecula locals Todd and Shelly. Shelly's a teacher so some of you Temecula teachers might know her. What a small, small world.



Just to give you perspective regarding New Zealand's largest National Park.
After several hours of frolicking in the fjords, we headed back to sea. Our port of call will be Dunedin for my birthday. Here's to wishes coming true!

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2 comments:

Jenny said...

Beautiful! I totally love the coffee mug photo! How funny

Anonymous said...

Happy Birthday o this day 3/28 🎊🎂🎉🎁🎈❤️Many beautiful memories to you …may all be well ….love Trish and Matt

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