Travels in New Zealand
Have you ever been to a place that you just DID NOT want to leave? Like, literally felt a tightness and anxiety in your chest about leaving? That’s exactly how my husband, David, and I felt about New Zealand. It was more than just a trip; it was a love affair with a country that left us completely enchanted.
As travel writers we’ve seen our fair share of stunning places, but New Zealand truly stole our hearts.
Our adventure began in Auckland, the “City of Sails,” where the harbour’s shimmery waters set a perfect backdrop for our first taste of Kiwi life. With more boats per capita than any other city, it’s no wonder Auckland is known by this nickname. We spent our mornings sipping coffee at waterfront cafes and watching all the yachts bobbing away on the waves. The Sky Tower, with its panoramic views, offered a breathtaking introduction to the city’s familiar skyline. A short ferry ride whisked us away to Waiheke Island, a haven of picturesque beaches and boutique wineries. Here, we indulged in some lengthy wine tastings, each sip revealing the terroir of this beautiful island.
In Waiheke, we dined at Tantalus Estate, where the stunning vineyard views were only rivalled by the exquisite food. The truffle and mushroom risotto was a standout dish, creamy and rich, perfectly complemented by their award-winning Chardonnay. We even had the chance to meet the head winemaker, who gave us a behind-the-scenes tour of the winemaking process.
From Auckland, we journeyed to Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland where the earth’s raw power is on full display. The air, thick with the scent of sulfur, was a constant reminder of the geothermal activity bubbling just beneath the surface. Rotorua sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it a hotspot for volcanic activity. We wandered through landscapes that seemed otherworldly, with geysers erupting and mud pools bubbling. Rotorua’s cuisine is heavily influenced by traditional Maori cooking, particularly the hāngī, a method where food is cooked in an earth oven. We were fortunate to partake in a traditional Māori hāngī feast, where the earth-cooked food was as rich in flavour as the performances were in cultural significance. The haka, performed with fierce pride and passion, left an indelible mark on our hearts.
In Rotorua, we also enjoyed a thrilling white-water rafting adventure on the Kaituna River with Kaitiaki Adventures. The highlight was definitely the 7-metre Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. The adrenaline rush was incredible, and our guides were both knowledgeable and entertaining.
Wellington, the capital, set between a sparkling harbour and rolling hills, was our next stop. This city, with its eclectic arts scene and cosy cafes, exuded charm. We spent hours exploring the interactive exhibits at Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum, which offered a profound understanding of New Zealand’s history and natural environment. Did you know Wellington is the southernmost capital city in the world? The historic Wellington Cable Car took us to the Botanic Garden, where the views of the city and harbour were nothing short of spectacular.
In Wellington, we had an unforgettable meal at Logan Brown, a restaurant known for its creative take on New Zealand cuisine. The food here is a testament to the country’s influences, blending traditional Maori cooking techniques with European, Asian, and Pacific Rim flavours.The paua ravioli in lobster bisque was a revelation, combining local seafood with sophisticated flavours. The ambiance was elegant, yet welcoming, making it a perfect end to our day of exploration.
No visit to New Zealand would be complete without a trip to Queenstown, the adventure capital. Here, the adrenaline rushes came thick and fast. Bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge with AJ Hackett Bungy tested my limits, and skydiving over the stunning Lake Wakatipu with NZONE Skydive was an exhilarating experience that I will never forget. Even in winter, the slopes of The Remarkables offered world-class skiing. Did you know Queenstown is known as the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping? After the thrills, Queenstown’s nightlife and gourmet food scene provided the perfect way to wind down.
One of our highlights in Queenstown was dinner at Rata, where we enjoyed a meal crafted by celebrity chef Josh Emett. The slow-cooked lamb shoulder, paired with a local Pinot Noir, was a perfect example of how New Zealand’s fresh, local ingredients can shine in the hands of a master chef.
Our exploration of Fiordland National Park was a humbling experience. The sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls of Milford Sound left us in awe. Cruising through these pristine waters, surrounded by untouched wilderness, was a highlight of our journey. Every corner of this UNESCO World Heritage site revealed a new, stunning vista, making it clear why this area is considered one of the most beautiful places on earth.
For a more tranquil escape, we headed to the Marlborough region, renowned for its world-class wines. Touring the vineyards and sampling the crisp Sauvignon Blancs was a delightful way to relax. Each vineyard had its own story, and the passionate vintners were always eager to share their craft.
In Marlborough, we visited Wither Hills Winery, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch overlooking the vineyards. The fresh, local produce and perfectly paired wines made for an unforgettable meal. The seared scallops with pea puree and pancetta were a particular highlight, as was the estate’s signature Sauvignon Blanc.
Kaikoura, where the ocean’s bounty takes centre stage, was our final destination. Whale watching here was an unforgettable experience. Seeing these majestic creatures breach the surface was awe-inspiring. Swimming with dolphins and encountering playful seals added to the magic of this coastal town.
One morning, while on a dolphin swimming excursion with Encounter Kaikoura, we were lucky enough to find ourselves surrounded by a pod of over 300 dusky dolphins. At one point, a group of dolphins began leaping and spinning in unison, as if putting on a show just for us and an unforgettable moment.
As we explored New Zealand, we discovered some fascinating facts about this incredible country. For instance, New Zealand is home to unique flora and fauna, including the famous kiwi bird, which is a national symbol. The country has no native land mammals except bats, resulting in a distinct ecosystem. Also, due to its geographical location, the East Cape of New Zealand is one of the first places in the world to see the sunrise each day. Additionally, New Zealand’s stunning landscapes have been featured in many films, most notably “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies. Locations such as Mount Sunday (Edoras) and Tongariro National Park (Mount Doom) are must-visit spots for any fan of these epic movies.
New Zealand’s beauty, culture and thrilling activities makes it an unparalleled travel destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or the opportunity to be at one with the Islands this promises an unforgettable journey. So pack your bags and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. New Zealand awaits you with open arms.
