We set off on the 5 hour drive to Wanaka knowing that there would be points of interest along the way but forgot that sand flies would already be there. Our first mistake was to stop for coffee at Bruce Bay forgetting to spray ourselves before we exited the car. As we waited for our coffee to brew we became aware of dozens of biting beasties attacking arms, legs and any other exposed skin. The girl serving us confirmed they were sand flies and showed us the product she used to protect herself.
Next time we stopped the car we were ready for them.
We stopped at Haast to visit the i-site and take a comfort break, then drove on to Thunder Creek Falls for lunch. Even though we’d sprayed ourselves, the sand flies joined in.
On arrival at Wanaka we asked where to eat then promptly ignored the suggestion, though we did follow the route to the town centre. We ate at the Lake Bar. Susan had a Long Island Iced Tea which made her feel rather peculiar. I stuck to a dark beer.