When Tim and I traveled through New Zealand for 2 months, we went with a unique bus tour called Stray. We had originally planned to rent a campervan and self-drive over the North and South Islands. After some research, I found a cheaper, easier option – buying a bus pass with Stray. What is Stray …
If you are traveling through New Zealand’s North Island, and you enjoy the outdoors and hiking (and honestly what are you doing in NZ if you don’t?), then the Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike should absolutely be a priority in your plans! This was easily one of the best things Tim and I did during our …
The very first big tourism activity we did in New Zealand was a day trip up to Cape Reinga from Paihia, on the North Island. Full of Maori history, epic coastal views, and adventures in the sand dunes, a Cape Reinga day trip is a great way to experience the northernmost tip of New Zealand! …
New Zealand’s Stewart Island is like the forgotten stepchild of the country. Everyone always talks about the North and South Islands, but what about Stewart? This island deserves some major love too, and this Stewart Island itinerary has everything you need to know. Here is what you will find in this Stewart Island itinerary: Getting …
Is the Franz Josef Glacier helihike worth the steep cost? This was the very question Tim and I wrangled with in advance of arriving in Franz Josef. We had budgeted for the painful price tag ($459 NZD per person) but still weren’t sure if we really wanted to spend it or save it. I know …
With two weeks on the South Island of New Zealand, a well-organized itinerary can take you to scenic fjords, epic glaciers, dramatic mountains, and all the bungee jumping you can stomach. Since it’s a relatively small island, you can easily travel throughout and visit all the major points of interest in about two weeks. Part …
With two weeks on New Zealand’s North Island, you can trek one of the most beautiful day hikes in the world at the Tongariro Crossing, witness the mesmerizing shimmer of glow worms at the Waitomo Caves, and explore the country’s surprisingly tropical side at Hahei. This two-week road trip itinerary covering the North Island of …
