Day two: St Arnauds to Hokitika

Our initial plan, after leaving the Alpine Lodge at St Arnauds, was to have breakfast in Murchison and then get some photos at the Buller Swing Bridge.

We explored the Sunday Market in Murchison, purchased a couple of little reminders of our visit, and had a lovely chat with some of the locals. Afterwards, we enjoyed a great coffee and snack at the River Café, where the friendly staff confirmed directions to the Buller Swing Bridge.

The stop at the Upper Buller Swing Bridge was meant to be just a walk across, but luck was on our side — there were four spots left on the Buller Jet boating trip scheduled for midday. We couldn’t waste an opportunity like that! Tickets purchased, and off we went.

Mark, the captain extraordinaire, helped us navigate the temporary steps down to the jet boat, and the fun started from that point. What an amazing part of our beautiful country! The stunning riverscape, the skill of the jet boat operator, and the perfect mix of excitement and adventure made for an absolutely exhilarating experience. We highly recommend this Jet boating experience.  

Today’s words of wisdom from the TB team:  first from our lovely Sandy  “If this was my last day on earth, I want you to know that this has been one of the happiest day I have had in such a long time”. Jonnece:  (who has been on a shotover jet boat trip) “this was so much more”. I really felt that Mark truly wants you to appreciate this river as much as he does.  He is living his dream.   Liz,  has 2 quotes:  quote one from the start of the bridge swing, “fuck” and second quote, after realising she had to cross back over the bridge,  ‘I live HERE now’.   And From Louise,  No stress, best day. 

After walking back over the swing bridge,  Sandy and I stopped everyone else from crossing the bridge until Liz had completed her return trip.   We hit the road again and opened our trivia cards.   We surprised Sandy with our incredible knowledge of NZ history and 1980/90s movies and Tv shows, but apparently Jean Batten is not just a street name, and Liz was surprised to find out the Hillary Swank was not the first NZ woman to fly solo from Britain.  

Some of our photos for our great day.  Tomorrow has got a lot to live up to. 

Mark, the amazing Jet Boat owner operator:

  

The bridge:  

The ride:

The riverscape:

The team:

I will blogged the next stop at Punakaiki and Hokitika. Watch this space.