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Helicopter ride to Milford SoundJan 25, 2006
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Ready for off...
Brave smile while holding on tight!
Glenorchy
An early 30th Birthday treat as Nick and Claire are working Saturday, we took a scenic helicopter ride to Milford Sound. The day was absolutely perfect for such an excursion with not one cloud in the blue sky!
Pete, the pilot, took us to a number of different stops, the first being on the snow! Here we really were top of the world with a complete 360 degree view (yes, we also had that while flying!). We then jetted off the Milford Sound where we disembarked and walked around for a while, taking in the beauty and enormity of the peaks. The helicopter both entered and left the end of the sound above the channel leading to the ocean - so much quicker than the boat ride!
A deserted beach was the next port-o-call, and apparently the surf was not very good, but it looked massive to me and the shoreline was all white...Flew over some rocks and spotted seals basking in the sun, but didn't locate any red deer in the forest.
Lunch we stopped by the most beautiful mountain lake which feeds the Missive Waterfall (one of the highest around). The lake water was clear as anything and perfectly reflected the surrounding mountains. In this peaceful location Pete presented us with lunch which was an amazing feast of breads, cheeses, chutneys, meats, champagne, fruit etc...delicious.
Flying back all the tramping routes were pointed out, so maybe next visit I'll attack the Milford Track as it looked fantastic.
Wonderful day and great 30th birthday treat.
