Franz Josef

Frans Josef is absolutely beautiful.  It is known for its glaciers.  New Zealand has two glaciers, Franz Josef and Fox Glacier out of three in the world that descends into a natural rain forest.  It was very beautiful.  Today we hiked along a trail to check out some views.  There were  beautiful waterfalls, streams, and of course the glacier.  Tomorrow we are actually going to take a helicopter tour up on top of the glacier.  We are so excited.

This evening Aaron and I stayed in.  We were tired of eating out so much so we grabbed some groceries and made dinner in our condo.  After dinner we kicked back and watched some movies.  During the movies, I decided that I needed a popcorn break.  Unfortunately, we didn’t have any, so I needed to run to the local store. I had drank a couple glasses a wine and Aaron a few beers, but it had been over a few hours, so I felt confident to drive.  This is only the second time I drove in New Zealand. 

I was driving along the New Zealand countryside on my own and proud that I was staying on the left side of the road.  As I rounded the corner, I about pissed my pants when I saw an “alcohol checkpoint”.  I thought I felt fine, but I had been drinking and who knows what the legal limit is in New Zealand.  This wasn't exactly the time I wanted to test the limits.  Needless to say, I pretty much freaked myself out.

As I approached the officer, the road was completely empty.  The officer asked if I had been drinking, and I said yes.  He asked me to pull over so I could do a breathalyzer check.  Apparently, they don't have you do any sobriety test (walking a line, check your eyes, etc.), they just have everyone blow in a breathalyzer at these checkpoints. 

I am sure I was as white as a ghost and trying not to freak out.  The first time I blew, I didn't blow enough.  He asked me to blow again.  Afterwards, the machine churned for what seemed like an eternity.  All the time I am thinking that I am going to jail.  I have no cell phone to call Aaron.  Aaron has no way to drive to pick me up.  This is going to be a disaster.  I tried to make small talk, and I asked him what the legal limit was in New Zealand.  He asked what it was in the states.  I said it was .08.  He said, yeah I think it is about the same here. 

Finally, the verdict came back and he asked if I was over 25.  I said yes, and he said you are good to go.  He said, I bet I gave you quite a fright.  I said you have no idea.  He suggested if I was going to continue my drinking, I should stay at home.   OMG!  Crisis avoided. 

I jetted to the grocery store and snagged the popcorn.  On my way home, I had to pass back through the checkpoint where several more cars were taking the test.   When I got home, Aaron just laughed.  I have never been so nervous in my life.  I told Aaron he is officially driving the rest of the trip.  My luck has pretty much run out.