A Taste of New Zealand
On November 18, Myself and my partner (Jake) flew out to our neighbouring country of New Zealand. Upon arrival to Auckland we picked up our faithful rental car and drove three hours North to Omapere. We stayed in an amazing secluded lodge called ‘Kokohuia Lodge’, it was truly 5 star looking out onto the stunning views of the Hokianga Harbour, sand dunes and native bushland.
On November 22, If you are a Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fan, you will enjoy this one. We travelled to Matamata to see the Hobbiton movie set. After our main tour we spent some time in the ‘Green Dragon Inn, where Jake and I were the only ones to take it upon ourselves to dress like Hobbits. It’s a must for movie fans, if I can enjoy it you guys will revel in it.
On November 22- 23, We travelled into Lake Taupo, which I was soon to learn that’s where I would be jumping off a perfectly stable ledge, bungy jumping that is. I’d like to say it was all my idea although a phone call from my parents the night before led to a $200 bet and the word ‘chicken’ coming out of my Dads mouth, “you’ve got yourself a deal $$$” I thought. I’m glad I did it, because it makes me seem tough, though if you see the photos (that I will be hiding from the public forever) I’m quite sure I blacked out for the first few seconds of the free fall.
On November 24, Back on the road again, we end up in Rotorua. Let me tell you yes, it does smell, really bad - although…you get used to it, don’t let that stop you from experiencing the town. There are so many awesome things to do; I would recommend the zorb balling, rain hail or shine it’s perfect for the whole family to do, as well as the Polynesian Spa. If you’re on a tight budget you can do a walk around Lake Rotorua itself, its thermal springs make it a different lake experience to what you’d be used to.
On November 26, We flew into Christchurch to pick up our highly anticipated Kombi Van, then we hit the road for another week, during this week we visited some amazing little hidden gems including Arthurs Pass, Hokitika and Mount Cook, thankfully we had no car trouble and I’ll admit to eating sausage sandwiches every night.
December 1, Our last stop for the trip was in Queenstown, this place is magical, I can imagine it’s even more beautiful in the winter, although those sorts of temperatures aren’t for me. The gondola ride up the mountain is a must, Jake and I zip-lined back down which was a memorable experience. There is great shopping (for all of you shop-a-holics) and plenty of adrenaline activities for you to get involved with.
For more check out my instagram- ‘melisetravels’ I hope this helps you if you are planning a trip sometime soon!
Melise x
