Franz Josef

We awoke to sunshine beaming through our curtains and a spectacular view. It was the perfect day for a hike through a glacier. Which is exactly what we did.

I clambered up into the front seat of the helicopter (which in itself was crazy cool) and flew to Franz Josef Glacier – the fastest moving glacier in the world.

We buckled up our crampons and donned hats and gloves before setting off to explore the ice.

We squeezed through ice cracks and crawled through holes in the ice.

Bit of a squeeze.

Ice explorers. 

It was an amazing experience.

Once back on tarmac, we went on a Kiwi hunt. It seemed silly to come all the way to New Zealand and not see their native bird. In town there's a kiwi sanctuary so we paid a visit. The birds are nocturnal so unfortunately no cameras were allowed but I promise we saw the funny little things! I actually thought they were quite cute and, if you know me at all, you definitely wouldn't say I'm a bird fan. 

Our final stop for the evening involved beautifully hot pools. For a couple of well deserved hours we soaked up the relaxing, rehydrating and rejuvenating waters.

The perfect end to an icy day.