Kathy was simply the best host and I would recommend a stay at hers to anyone looking to explore Fiordland and the surrounding area! Her place and her hospitality made for the perfect base for my 10 days in Southland, during which time I hiked the Milford and Kepler Tracks.
Kathy's place is well-located, as a 10 minute walk from the main high street and from the DoC office. Moreover, Kathy is knowledgeable about the tracks and the local area and this came in handy more than once - for example when I needed some repairs done to my hiking boots she was able to connect me to a local guy who could do it.
I was able to do all the prep I needed for my walks at hers - eg cleaning and waterproofing my boots, doing my laundry in between walks, and hanging everything out to dry. She was even able to lend me a small piece of kit that I was missing.
Kathy was so kind, generous and flexible, it really made a difference to my experience of the hikes. Communication was really easy before and during my stay. I really appreciated her offer to drive me to the start of the track and was especially grateful that she could pick me up at the end! I had an unexpected delay on the track and had to change the dates of my final night's stay - and it was no problem at all to change this on short notice.
Above all Kathy is just a lovely person and I really enjoyed talking over breakfast or a cup of tea. I will definitely stay with her again next time I come down!