On route to Westport we stopped at Lake Rotoiti. Rotoiti is a lake in the Tasman region of New Zealand. It is a substantial mountain lake within the borders of Nelson Lakes National Park. The lake is surrounded by Beech forest and is 82 metres deep. We had 45 minutes here to enjoy the beautiful lake which gave us plenary of time to take lots of photographs at the end of the jetty and for those brave enough to jump off into the very cold water to go for a swim. A...

The drive from Richmond to Kaiteriteri was breathtaking, we had seen our first glimpses of the Southern Alps and I can now see why people have said the South Island is more picturesque then the North Island. Known for its pristine beaches and as a gateway to the wonders of the Abel Tasman National Park, Kaiteriteri has been attracting holiday makers to its turquoise waters since the 1920's. Located on Tasman Bay about an hour's travel from Nelson in the area col...

We had an early start to the day to ensure we caught the ferry crossing at 9am. The crossing lasts three and a half hours crossing the Cook Strait from Wellington in the North Island to Picton in the South Island. The last hour is quite scenic as the ferry pushes down Queen Charlotte Sound and passes numerous secluded bays, coves and inlets. I was lucky that one of dad's old rugby friends lives in Richmond that happened to be one of our scheduled stops for lunch...

Te Papa museum Wellington contains historical aspects of Maori as well as recent 20th Century history. The Museum leaves you with a sense of how much change New Zealand has gone through in a very brief period of time. Being able to go back in time through these exhibits is a valuable thing to do for anyone interested in Maori culture. There was also an excellent exhibition on Gallipoli the scale of our war. The exhibition tells the story of the Gallipoli campaign...

One of New Zealand's best kept secrets, River Valley is a destination you want to put on your bucket list. The remote destination is popular with travellers eager to get off the tourist trail and discover the real New Zealand. Surrounded by towering cliffs and bush-clad hills, packed with epic scenery, adrenaline pumping activities and tranquil trails, the family-own ranch, situated on the wild Rangitikei River, no mobile reception, it truly is a hidden gem well ...