
Cleaning Motel units is definitely not a job I would want forever but I am not complaining. I get to move for about 4 hours a day instead of sitting in front of a computer for 8 hours. I listen to podcasts as I go about my work and the only supervision I have is occasionally a visit from the resident cat.

I have free accommodation with my own room and bathroom as well as getting paid the princely sum of $21.50 and hour for my work.


The view out the windows is stunning and I am meeting new people every day.

There is usually a couple of Te Araroa walkers sharing the backpackers with me so I am keeping up to date with what is happening on the trail and help out with their planning.

- This week has seen;
- 2 kiwi women in their 70s,
- a 17 year old kiwi girl,
- two friends from Waikato doing sections,
- a retired man who was head of paediatrics in an Auckland hospital,
- a young Japanese lad and French girl who have been happily “stuck” in New Zealand for the Covid time.
There is a steep hill walk up Mt John that I do some afternoons up to an observatory. Unfortunately the cafe at the top is closed because of the lack of tourists. This area is world famous for the dark skies and stars.











Looks fabulous Karen
It’s just a nice way to see our country…motels ,fruit picking whatever..you are enjoying yourself aren’t you? At least the weather looks nice..take care..
Don’t forget the family visits whether you want them or not 🙂
What more could you want Karen….you look well, relaxed and happy, wish I was there with you…. Go girl. ….and yes you are right, who the hell wants to sit in front of a computer all day. Loving your posts, keep em coming. Happy days. X
Lovely that you have a base in Tekapo. We are here at the moment at the NZMCA park – did the the Mt John walk today- whole loop- lots of toadstools and rabbits