We left Queenstown on the slow bus north to Franz Josef Township, it was overcast and quite cold. Our driver was not the happiest of. people, he had been called in on his day off at short notice and I don't think it went down well. Anyway he was only taking us to the halfway point of our journey and he cheered up a bit as he reached the end of his stint.
As we crossed the mountains and onto the West Coast the weather changed dramaticaly and so did the mood of the driver! Our new man, George, was a different character all together. He was cheerful and very talkative, pointing out all of the landmarks on the way. George also seemed to know all the local history and he loved to tell you all about it.
We disembarked the coach at the small settlement of Franz Josef, George dropping us off outside of our accomodation and that was the last we would see of him, or so we thought.
We went for a beer before dinner and who should be in the bar but George dressed in his civies and having a beer while watching the rugby on the TV.
Turns out that he is one of the few residents of the township and only drives the bus two days a week.
George's house in Franz Josef, opposite was a car in the window was a notice advertising it for sale. The notice simply said contact George.
The next morning we were walking to get some breakfast when George passed us, this time in his overalls and driving a tractor! Looks like he is the local farmer as well.
Our plan today is to go on a Heli Hike on the glacier as long as the weather permits.
We arrived at the office to be told that we should call back in 40 mins, worried we might not be able to fly we went away for a coffee.
On our return we were informed that to our relief that the helicopter was good to go. After being taken to collect our boots, crampons and coats we were led to the helicopter. We were tasked with taking a chocolate milkshake up to our guide who was already up on the glacier.
After a short flight over the glacier we set down on the ice about 5km from the face and were met by our guide.
Imagine our surprise when we found out that it was George! A much younger version but George nonetheless. It seems that everyone in Franz Josef is called George or at least it did to us.
What about the glacier I here you say, well that was stunning but I will tell you about that another time.
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