Did You Bring Your Own Bedding?

HANMER SPRINGS. 14 NOVEMBER 2024.

We have a great night’s sleep only getting up to use the communal bathroom at 5am. In doing so, we pass by a miner in the kitchen eating his breakfast before his shift.

There’s been heavy overnight rain and it continued well into the morning. So we’re in no rush to leave and have a leisurely breakfast in the lounge. On the way out, Rosie offers to pay for the washing and drying we did yesterday but the receptionist tells us no charge because it’s quiet. A bonus!

We drive through the Lewis Pass, the views are fabulous. We arrive at Hanmer Springs too early to access the campsite so we spend a couple of hours in the thermal baths. Rosie was here 30 years’ ago and comments on how much it has changed. Including the addition of water slides which we take advantage of, you’re never too old!

We check in at the campsite. First thing we’re asked is if we have our own bedding. Surprisingly because she has most things in her suitcase, Rosie has to say no. So we’re charged extra. We have towels so save money there and decline the WiFi because we noticed that we can sit outside the library and get it for free.

We buy steak for dinner and cook it in the chalet, eating it on the veranda. We learn that it’s a holiday weekend in Canterbury this weekend so the roads will be busy. This from a guy who is in the next chalet. On arrival, he tried unsuccessfully to park his 4x4 undercover. Which resulted in a fallout with his wife.

After dinner we walk through the forest opposite. It’s the venue for a Parkrun at the weekend and it’s a stunning route. Sadly, we’ll be in Christchurch.