ew Zealand is a land of breath taking landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling adventures waiting to be discovered. In May, my companions and I embarked on an unforgettable month-long road trip around both of New Zealand's islands in a motorhome, immersing ourselves in the diverse beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities the country has to offer. From iconic film sets to stunning natural wonders, our journey was nothing short of extraordinary. Here's a glimpse into our exhilarating adventure:
Hobbiton
Would be rude not to have our first New Zealand location be the enchanting world of Hobbiton. True to style we arrived late and missed our time slot for the coach which takes you to the movie set, but luckily for us the next available slot was only a 10 minute wait away!
After actually making it on the coach, a short intro film was played which really set the scene for the tour to come (I got goosebumps!!)
Off the bus, the walking tour around the set was so cute, each little hobbit home had its own special characteristics (check out the Beekeeper's home). The tour then ended in the Green Dragon Inn with a free drink.
Whether you like the movies or not, I really recommend swinging by for the experience. ps. John's never actually seen any of the movies so it was touch and go whether he was going to be let in...
Ticket price: $89 / £45 each
(included a free mug to say sorry about the construction of a bigger hobbit home. Once the construction is complete later this year the ticket price will jump up!)
Huka Falls
Next, we found ourselves mesmerized by the raw power and beauty of Huka Falls. The turquoise waters thundered down with such force, creating a spectacle that left us in awe of nature's might.
Blue Spring Putaruru
We continued our journey to the serene Blue Spring in Putaruru, where crystal-clear waters gushed from beneath the earth, creating a surreal blue hue that seemed almost magical. It was a tranquil oasis that offered a peaceful respite amidst our adrenaline-fueled adventures.
4. Sea Plane on Lake Taupo: Seeking a unique perspective of Lake Taupo and its surrounding landscapes, we embarked on a thrilling sea plane adventure. Soaring above the vast expanse of water and volcanic terrain below, we were treated to panoramic views that left us breathless.
5. Marlborough Wine Region: Our road trip took a more relaxed turn as we indulged in the renowned wines of the Marlborough region. Sampling exquisite Sauvignon Blancs and exploring picturesque vineyards was a delightful contrast to our outdoor escapades.
6. Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook: The stunning turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki provided a picturesque backdrop as we journeyed towards the majestic Mount Cook. Hiking amidst towering peaks and glaciers, we felt humbled by the grandeur of New Zealand's highest mountain.
7. Onsen Hot Pools: After days of adventure, we treated ourselves to a rejuvenating soak in the tranquil Onsen Hot Pools. Nestled amidst lush native bush, the thermal pools offered a therapeutic retreat where we could unwind and recharge.
8. Quad Biking in Franz Josef: Thrill-seekers at heart, we couldn't resist the opportunity to tear through rugged terrain on exhilarating quad biking adventures in Franz Josef. The adrenaline rush of navigating through forest trails and riverbeds was an unforgettable experience.
9. Dawson Falls: Our journey led us to the pristine beauty of Dawson Falls, where we were greeted by cascading waterfalls amidst lush rainforest. It was a serene sanctuary that allowed us to connect with nature in its purest form.
10. Fishing in Kaikoura: In the coastal town of Kaikoura, we embarked on a fishing excursion, hoping to reel in the catch of the day amidst the stunning backdrop of rugged cliffs and sparkling waters.
11. Exploring Kaikoura: Kaikoura captivated us with its diverse marine life and coastal charm. From whale watching to exploring the rugged coastline on foot, every moment spent in this coastal paradise was filled with wonder and discovery.
12. Castle Hill: We ventured into the surreal landscape of Castle Hill, where towering limestone formations seemed like something out of a fantasy realm. Exploring this otherworldly terrain was like stepping into a natural playground of giants.
13. Milford Sounds: Our journey reached its pinnacle as we ventured into the pristine wilderness of Milford Sound. Cruising amidst towering fiords and cascading waterfalls, we were surrounded by awe-inspiring beauty at every turn.
14. Jet Skiing in Bay of Islands: In the Bay of Islands, we traded motorhome for jet skis, racing across azure waters and exploring hidden coves and remote islands. It was an adrenaline-fueled adventure that added a thrilling twist to our coastal exploration.
15. Sailing Charter on Bay of Islands: Our adventure drew to a close with a leisurely sailing charter in the Bay of Islands. Drifting along pristine waters, we savored the tranquility and beauty of this coastal paradise, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences we had gathered throughout our month-long journey.
Our motorhome road trip around both of New Zealand's islands in May was a journey of discovery, adventure, and natural beauty. From exploring iconic film sets to indulging in adrenaline-pumping activities and serene moments in nature, every experience enriched our souls and left us with memories to last a lifetime. New Zealand truly captured our hearts, and we can't wait to return for more adventures in the future.
