Manipouri to Omarama

Had a great night's sleep at an excellent campground in Manipouri (excellent = clean, quiet, nice kitchen, a really nice couple that owned it, and hardly anyone there!). Didn't leave there until 10:00.  We're now headed toward Christchurch, so there will be a lot of driving for the next couple of days.  No major stops today.  Our route was back through Kawarau Gorge and the fruit- growing area, then along a small lake and into the Lindis Valley and Lindis Pass.  This mountain area was different from others we've been through.  Rather than tree-covered, the mountains are more stark and covered with tussock grass (mostly brown at this point).  Also beautiful.  We drove out from under an early morning shower.  Good to be back in the sun!  Omarama is a tiny town.