Our last stop before departing Invercargill for the ride north Te Anau is the huge collection of classic vehicles at late Bill Richardson’s Transport World . Covering an entire city block, the collection is home to more than 250 vintage vehicles and a wide range of aassociated memorabilia. The 15,000 square meter facility is claimed to the largest private vehicle collection in the world. Tucked into nooks and corners, and even in the cafe, are more than 100 vintage petrol pumps. The place is not to be missed.
Chris at lunch in Transport World
Te Anau and Milford Sound
After the morning hiking about Invercargill, we are back on the road again, this time north to Te Anau on the shores of a beautiful lake of the same name. This little village is our home for the night and is gateway to the Milford Sound, without doubt the most famous of New Zealand’s scenic attractions.
On the road to Te Anau
A few miles outside of Invercargill and in spite of having four GPS units, we’re lost. First clue is the pavement has disappeared. We knew we were still in New Zealand–it’s got water on all sides, right.
We backtrack to a missed corner and are soon on the correct road again.
We stop for a break at the historic Clifden Suspension Bridge. Constructed in 1889-89 and spanning 366 feet across the Waiai River the bridge is no longer in service, but remains as New Zealand’s longest wooden suspension bridge.
Village Inn in Te Anau–two nights here
Sunset on Lake Te Anau
The next morning we are gather for the ride to Milford Sound for a scheduled boat tour.
The road to Milford Sound
Paul and Pam at a pullout on the Milford Sound highway.
Into the tunnel, in the rain
The descent into Milford Sound. Two of the dreaded Kea in the foreground waiting to lunch on a motorcycle seat..
Milford Sound
Our tour boat arrives
Panoramic view of Milford Sound
Debra having a bad hair day
A brief stop on the return ride to Te Anau
Early evening approaching Te Anau