A long-held wish of Barry's was to travel across the alpine region of the South Island by train. Seeing keas close-up was Sandra's aim ...
Life in New Zealand
A Christchurch Catch-Up With Unique Street Art
In March we re-visited Christchurch to spend time with Barry's daughter Jamie. There was an amazing street art exhibition at the museum ...
Our Failed Free Campervan Relocation Adventure
What a great find - a free camper van for ten days to adventure between Auckland and Christchurch. What could possibly go wrong? Well ...
Reflecting On Our Experience Of Cyclone Gabrielle’s Devastation
On 13th February, severe tropical cyclone Gabrielle arrived in Gisborne. The effects continue to be felt. Here we share our experiences ...
Rather Wet Yet Wonderful Times In Gisborne And Rarotonga
Although the weather has been, and continues to be, erratic and predominantly wet, we're adoring being back in Gisborne with family & friends.
Merry Christmas From New Zealand
New Zealand and the UK have opposite seasons. Many people prefer the cold at Christmas. I personally love the warmth and long light days!
Our Top Ten Favourite South Island Destinations
Reflecting on the five months we spent tiki-touring NZ's South Island in a campervan, we share our top ten favourite places.
May 2021 – The End Of Our South Island Adventures
Although it's almost a year since our final days in the South Island, we're keen to finish sharing our memorable adventures in words & images.
Joining The Dots In Arthurs Pass
Having travelled eastwards from the west coast to Arthur's Pass Village in February, we subsequently journeyed westwards with friends in May.
Settling Back In Blighty On Board NB Areandare
Leaving Gisborne on Sunday 1st August, we flew back to the UK on Thursday 5th August. It's an interesting time to be flying that's for sure!
Re-Visiting Christchurch and Banks Peninsula
From the 7th to 21st May, we hung around Christchurch with Jamie and visited a number of nearby attractions.
Sights And Delights From Lake Wakitipu to Christchurch
At the end of April we headed to Lake Tekapo, expecting to be blown away by its beauty. Did it live up to our expectations?
Mount Cook Village, Tasman Glacier And Back To Lake Pukaki
After our incredible experience on the Hooker Valley Walk, we explored Mount Cook Village and the Tasman Glacier. How would they compare?
Magnificent Mount Cook
Out of all the adventures and experiences we had in our five months on the South Island, Mount Cook won the Gold Medal. You'll soon see why ...
Dams Lakes and Cliffs Waiting For A Mount Cook Weather Window
Waiting for a clear weather window to visit Mount Cook in April, we visited the Waitaki Hydro Power Scheme, Lake Ohau, and the Clay Cliffs.
Visiting A Vanished World
Our itinerary often alters due to fascinating things we find along the way. Oamaru, Duntroon & The Vanished World were well worth seeing.
In Awe Of Yellow Eyed Penguins And Moeraki Boulders
Sharing photographs, videos and stories of our precious time in April 2021 with yellow-eyed penguins and the marvellous Moeraki boulders.
A Superb Few Days Around St Bathans
After leaving Dunedin, we travelled slowly west and north to visit St Bathans. There were was so much to see it took our breath away.
Adorable Dunedin Buildings People Albatrosses and Penguins
We're not all that comfortable in big cities, but Dunedin managed to impress us regardless. Mostly the outstanding Otago Peninsula.
Entranced By The Catlins Heritage Trail
Having planned only two blogs about our adventures in the Catlins, we realised there's so much amazingness three are needed to do it justice.