I have to say, that never have I been so amazed by the nature and wilderness of a city before entering Queenstown.

Let us be clear though: Queenstown is a rich, expensive town, a bit touristy on some sides, and clearly not as wild as a farmers’ village. However, the nature around it is arguably the most beautiful I have ever seen in the vicinity of such a town, which without a doubt makes it a really incredible place to live in.

Like Ben’s parents, my hosts at that time and friends now, do.

After a passionate discussion about the Western society up in the air above New Zealand, I gaped at the landing in Queenstown’s incredible airport – the landing track is on a cliff surrounded by green mountains. I am serious. And still today, I do not know if I am happy to have seen an airport in such a beautiful place, of if I am sad to have seen an airport in such a beautiful place…

Richard, Ben’s father, picked us up and drove us down to their house in town. I met the mother Leanne there, and met Josie (Ben’s sister) again. They warmly welcomed me in the house and I quickly felt really comfortable with them. I spent a few days exploring a bit of the town, the outskirts, and doing my last preparations for the upcoming trek. Following the advices of Richard and Leanne, two experienced trampers – on top of being incredibly cultivated, educated and deeply interesting people – I had set up for the nearby Routeburn Track, one of the most famous Great Walks of New Zealand.

When I had everything and was finally ready to go in the wild, I, at last, said goodbye to Ben and thumbed my way along the magnificent Lake Wakatipu, to Glenorchy and a bit beyond.

Next objective: the Routeburn Track.