During our travels in New Zealand, there has been a constant message given to us by virtually everyone: "Check the weather before you go” and “be prepared, because the weather changes quickly”. This is in stark contrast to our time in Trinidad when no one focused on the weather because it was ALWAYS 32-34C, humid, with a chance of rain.
Based on the last 2 days, we now know why Kiwi’s advice has been so important.
Two days ago we were out hiking around Lake Tekapo in shorts and t-shirts, basking in the sun, and enjoying 21 C temperatures. We then drove an hour north, pulled into the Winchester Motor Camp, and were promptly told by Jack, the resident Welcome Wagon “host”, that snow was coming the next day. SNOW! Come on Jack. Get real.
After a warm night's sleep in Jucy, we awoke to cooler temperatures and drizzle. The drizzle turned to rain, and the temperature dropped - 10C, 8C, 6C, 5C as we drove to Terrie and Alan's, our new wwoofing home. We managed to get outside and despite rain, cleaned out veggie and rose gardens. Temperature check at 6pm: 2C. Terrie then proceeded to show us a picture of Lake Tekapo with about 2 cm of SNOW on the ground. Jack was right.
Note: I'm writing this from Terrie and Alan's kitchen table. The rain looks to be clearing, and the temperature is 6C, and feels like 2C. It's 8C in Belleville.
Update - 4 pm - It’s still raining and miserable. We are standing on the porch waiting for it to stop so we can get back into the garden!