It'd be very hard to name only one place in all of New Zealand that one should visit. But Queenstown should definitely be at the top of the list. An abundance of pristine lakes nestled in verdant woodlands, majestic mountains rimming the skyline, myriad activities to satisfy any predilections, excellent food, wineries galore, this place has everything! We spent the better part of three months in the area, investigating the countryside, climbing the hills, sampling the cuisine. We also took a long weekend away to travel to Aoraki, or Mount Cook, to the Dark Sky Reserve there, where we experienced awe at the sheer immensity and splendor of the galaxy.

Wanaka is a pleasant little town in the hills outside of Queenstown. It has the honor to have what is arguably the most photographed tree in New Zealand, if not in the world. The Wanaka Tree started as a willow fence post that took root in the 1930's, and has continued to thrive in Wanaka Lake for over 80 years.

We took the opportunity to paddle around Wanaka Lake while we were admiring its famous tree.

On our way back, we happened upon Bradrona, a memorial to all the women who have survived breast cancer. It was an overwhelming sight.

Milford Sound is a truly breathtaking sight to behold. It's actually a fjord, one of the few outside Scandinavia, and is home to achingly beautifull scenery including Bowen Falls.

We made it down for a day trip around the sound. Note that we were in Queenstown long enough for me to evolve from this . . .

. . . to this. Mount Cook, also known in Maori as Aotaki, contains one of the few Dark Sky Reserves on the planet. high above city lights and other light pollution, it's a place where one can see into the infinity of space and feel true awe.

Hooker Valley, nestled in amongst the Aoraki peaks, is a splendid place to explore while waiting for sunset.

The Hooker Valley Track meanders across Hooker Lake and weaves through the hills.

The air here is as pure as it gets.

The mountain looms over the landscape, and image of imposing might.

Queenstown Garden is one of the many pleasure to explore while there.

The hills above the city are eminently hikeable, and offer some impressive views.

But even just staying in town and walking the streets and trails lakeside . . .

. . . offers stunning scenery.

One of the Queenstown attractions, IFly, gives one the experience of skydiving without entering an aircraft . . .

. . . it's the closest to flying I'll probably ever get. What a blast!