For many people the South Island of New Zealand has got it all - breathtaking mountains, crystal clear lakes, beautiful bays and hair-raising activities galore.But that's not to say the North Island isn't worth seeing. Because it's here you really get to grips with nature, including active volcanoes, devastating earthquakes, boiling mud and hot springs. After Wellington, our first stop was Napier, a town destroyed by an earthquake in 19...

The adventure capital of the world certainly lives up to its reputation.We arrived in Queenstown convinced we weren't going to do a bungy jump but ended up doing something just as gut wretching - the Canyon Swing. Matt's palms were still sweating days later just thinking about it.But the excitement and feel of the town sucks you in and there is nothing else for it but to jump right in... We started the week quite calmly with a cable car rid...

We only arrived in New Zealand about a week ago but I have to say that I already absolutely love this country! The scenery is stunning and every corner you turn there is just one amazing view after another. Not to mention the friendly people, great bars, and 101 death-defying activities you could try your hand at. We flew into Christchurch after leaving Jo back in sunny Sydney. You may be wondering why we didn't see any more of the East coast of Oz. Well...

Our journey around south east Oz has come to an end with us back in sunny Sydney and meeting up with one of our journo friends, who has sacrificed life on the Andover Advertiser for a year of Down Under excitement (Hi Jo!). But first, we ended up staying in Melbourne for a week or so, enjoying its charm and European feel. The city's major export is, of course, Neighbours and I was quite keen to go to a pub night where you can meet the 'stars' close up. Unf...

Spring is certainly in the air now - and when you're in the coldest and wettest state in Oz, it can't come quickly enough. We've spent the last couple of days in Melbourne after a quick jaunt from New South Wales. It felt great to fly into Sydney again after first visiting five years ago. It all seemed so familiar, like meeting an old friend you haven't seen for a very long time but you instantly recognise all their mannerisms. Circular Quay with its ope...