Kia Ora New Zealand!

Oceania » New Zealand
April 26th 2023

Published: May 12th 2023

A camping we will go, A camping we will go, High Ho the Derry-O, A camping we will go! And what a place to do so! Great roads, abundant camp spots, friendly humor loving locals, ease of English language, and jaw dropping beauty! New Zealand is a place to get out and explore, marvel at nature, and challenge yourself to anything from hiking, to biking to paragliding and so much more. In our way too ... Read Full Entry

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Schroeder family

Shanghai Sheri

In 2006, our family began what we thought was a 3 year adventure of living and traveling in China. But like Gilligan, our 3 year tour turned into something much longer and deeper than we expected. This was just the beginning of our cultural travels and blogs. 3 years turned into 6 years and included a time of residence in South Korea as well. The kids have all transitioned into and out of college leaving us as empty nesters, but not empty of ambitions to continue to explore the world. Come along with us as we seek to expand our understanding of this marvelous world in which we live! ... full info

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Cable car transport from garage to hilltop home

We were fascinated by the numerous personal "elevator cable cars" used by residents on the hillsides of Wellington

Wellington to Picton ferry crossing

Crossing the Cook Strait took 3 1/2 hours. We drove our campervan on board and then found a sunny spot on deck, enjoying sea bird watching and the glorious blue sky and sea scenery.

Out of Picton on the Queen Charlotte highway

Winding out of Picton, below us is our Interislander ferry and the Picton harbor.

Our first Weka encounter

These cute little wild birds, a bit like a chicken, were not afraid to peck around our campspot looking for something to snack on.

Pelorus Valley

A steep 1400' climb past a river and up through beech forests and lush ferns opens up to this gorgeous view. Seemed like we'd never get there, but worth the hike.

Everything we need, but how to get to it?

We had plenty of room, but the narrow single person passage between the front and back of our van took some patience and getting used to.

They thought of everything

Our campervan drawers and cabinets were very well organized to hold all the necessities - wine glasses included. This IS New Zealand after all!

Sheri's charcuterie

Once we had all our food basics, I set out to construct a charcuterie of New Zealand products for evening wind down enjoyment. Included: Cheese - sheep and cow versions, beetroot relish, raspberry jam, pate, assorted olives, fresh baguette, herb grain crackers and of course, WINE! I loved the Sauvignon Blanc from the Awatere Valley of the Marlborough region.

Pancake rocks

Stormy Tasman Sea coast welcomed us with these fantastic rock formations near Punakaiki.

Shoulder season camping

Lower traffic and open spaces in beautiful spots. We stopped here, just south of Punakaiki, for an evening without prior reservation and found this lovely open spot where Weka entertained us in the morning and beautiful flowers and loud bird songs graced our experience.

Tasman Sea Coast

We became used to the ubiquitous flax seed plant, seen here in the foreground. So many pull outs along our western seaside drive south towards Queenstown.

Vibrant forest fungi

Werewere-kokako, native to New Zealand, is a rare treat to see, only present 1 month per year.

Fern forest

Add echoing melodic bird songs, smell the fresh aroma and feel the moist air on your face. This was the scene of many of our hikes.

Ubiquitous New Zealand swinging bridge

On our first swinging bridge we felt like we had really encountered a special trail. After 10 of them, we still throughly enjoyed them and the birds eye views they gave us of the scene below; however, these marvelous trail hoppers seemed more like a natural part of NZ hiking trails.

Beautiful Lake Hawea

Orange Sheep campervan park

No reservations needed, friendly desk agent who shared so much of NZ life, and close proximity to the glaciers. Another great stop on the journey.

Pukeko

There were groups of these native NZ birds grazing beside the entry to Lake Matheson hiking trail.

Another trail to explore

This is the start of the Lake Matheson trail. We knew the rain was coming, but no fear, we have great rain jackets and gorgeous scenery lay ahead.....

Lake Matheson

On a clear day, this lake is known for spectacular reflections of Mount Cook. Even on a rainy day the view was breathtaking.

Wise old white pine

Not like our Michigan White Pines, but these erudite looking giants are NZ's tallest trees.

Enchanted forest walk

These landscapes are known as fertile forests. Almost feels unreal - like a human created botanical garden. But it's the real deal. Complete with giant ferns, mossy coverings, tall beech trees and echoing bird songs.

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