Exploring New Zealand - Blogs about New Zealand
We visited Both the North Island and the South Island
Our years are FULL OF LIFE and EXPERIENCES! The remote life, traveling lifestyle, is everything it's made out to be. What is the remote life actually like with a family? We left as a couple and had two babies during our endless travels. We budget, but enjoy every memory. Reflecting on 1,826 days of continuous travel (5 years), having visited 30 different countries on 6 different continents, and birthing two children along the way.
This list includes coordinates for the Lord of the Rings film locations - particularly because we found it extraordinarily difficult to find some of the locations that were mentioned in other articles on the internet because the locations were too vague. This list is huge - and is comprised of filming locations mentioned, and listed, in the bonus features of the 6 films, LOTR “New Zealand: Home of Middle Earth”, as well as from many other sources here in New Zealand and online.
The eastern coast of the South Island of New Zealand offers visitors a beautiful backdrop for experiencing nature. The unforgettable vistas and fascinating culture will make your visit a once in a lifetime experience. We would highly recommend trying out the Dunedin City, Wildlife, and Scenic Tour while in the city, and then stopping by the Olveston Historic House, Speight’s Brewery, and the Chinese Garden. Note that there is also a train and bike path that lead out to Middlemarch that we wish we had time to do. For those who love hiking and biking, that will be the route to take to explore the Rock & Pillar range and the Strath Taieri.
While earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 were devastating to Christchurch, destroying many businesses, residential areas, and historical buildings, a lot of progress has been made in rebuilding and making things safe again. Akaroa, located on the Banks Peninsula, is named for the harbor it’s located by, “Long Harbor” in a Māori dialect. Although it was under control of the British in 1840, the area also has much history and influence from French and German settlers that is unique in New Zealand.
Like so much of New Zealand the area around Te Anau and Queenstown offers visitors unforgettable views and opportunities to experience nature in a way that’s like nowhere else on earth. Whether you’re a fan of Peter Jackson’s films or not, it’s impossible not to see why he chose this fantastical landscape for his epic tale. Its epic beauty stands up to all expectations.
The west coast of the South Island is full of experiences that you will not be able to find anywhere else you visit. New Zealand will draw you in and make you want to return again and again to see and experience the incredible marvels that nature has to offer here. It’s an adventure like no other.
The North Island of New Zealand is a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders. Experiencing them for yourself is sure to make it the first of many visits – you will want to return to explore more and experience their wonders again and again.
The Manawatu-Wanganui region of the North Island of New Zealand offers a host of options to visitors looking for adventure or entertainment. The area is full of options for nature lovers – everything from water adventures on the namesake rivers to beach days on the coast, with hiking, fishing, and camping in between. The area is also well known for its agriculture, which translates into delicious fresh produce and award-winning dining options.
The best things to do in Waikato and Rotorua including the more popular destinations, like Hobbiton and the Glowworm Caves, and local favorites as well. We’ve even added tips to make your dream trip to New Zealand even more magical.
A road trip from Queenstown to Christchurch is a must-do for a visit to the South Island of New Zealand. This guide covers all the must-see stops and highlights of the picturesque drive. It also includes the best things to do in Christchurch. Save this post for your New Zealand trip planning!
The best things to do in Auckland including the more popular destinations and local favorites as well. We’ve even added tips to make your dream trip to New Zealand even more magical.
Are you trying to figure out how to experience New Zealand on a budget? This article explains how we were able to enjoy Auckland, Rotorua, Tongariro, Wellington, Queenstown, Christchurch, Dunedin, Tekapo, Wanaka, Hokitika, Abel Tasman, and Nelson for under $44 per day per person. It might be a budget breakdown, but we’ve also packed it full of tips and tricks - everything you need to know before heading out to New Zealand!
Reflecting on 731 days of continuous travel (2 years - leap year), having visited 23 different countries on 5 different continents, doing most of it while pregnant, and with a baby. This year we explored Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Bali, Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand. Cheers to a third year of adventure!
Feed your wanderlust and explore the prettiest colorful neighborhoods around the world. From Europe to Africa to New Zealand, this is the ultimate list of pretty houses to put on your bucket list. The last one is a secret gem that isn’t included on other lists!
Thinking of making New Zealand your home? In this detailed guide, we share our journey of transitioning from full-time travelers to New Zealand residents through the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). From the job search process, visa requirements, and navigating life as expats to overcoming unexpected challenges, this article covers everything you need to know about moving to New Zealand. With helpful insights on work culture, benefits, and settling into Kiwi life, we hope our story offers inspiration and practical advice for anyone considering a new life in New Zealand.