New Zealand, December 2024

A Road Trip Through Mountains, Lakes & Middle-earth 

Our trip to New Zealand felt like driving through a postcard,  every turn, every vista, every breath of air more spectacular than the last. We explored both islands, beginning our adventure in the breath-taking South and winding our way north, with memories tucked into every stop.

Queenstown – Picture-Perfect Beginnings

We touched down in Queenstown, and honestly, it felt like arriving in a painting. Nestled between mountains and a shimmering lake, the town oozes charm. We started off with a scenic walk along the Timber Trail, where the only sound was birdsong and the crunch of our boots on the path. The town itself?  Queenstown city was the most beautiful we’d seen, cozy, lively, and surrounded by peaks. We had lunch at Flame Bar & Grill, and we still talk about it. The lamb was unreal, perfectly cooked and paired with the best white wine we’ve ever had. Sitting by the window, watching the sun light up the lake, it felt like the perfect moment.

On the Road: Queenstown to Christchurch

The next day, we hired a car and headed out toward Christchurch, taking the scenic Route 6 and Route 73 through Arthur’s Pass.  This wasn’t just a drive, it was an experience. Towering mountains, misty valleys, and winding roads that made us pull over again and again just to take in the views. Every stop felt like a hidden secret we were lucky enough to witness.

North Island – Rough Roads & Cold Dips

After some time in Christchurch, we flew to Wellington and picked up another car for our North Island road trip. From there, we drove up to Hamilton, but we quickly noticed: the North Island didn’t capture us the same way. It was different, not less beautiful, just... less dramatic. But the food made up for it. In particular, the beef was phenomenal , tender, rich, and cooked to perfection, whether in a roadside diner or a cosy pub.

Driving through the rugged and desert roads, we saw a sight that took our breath away: Mount Doom (also known as Mount Ngauruhoe) in all its wild glory. It was surreal, standing in the heart of a landscape that felt both otherworldly and deeply sacred. One of the most memorable moments? Taking a dip in Lake Taupo. The water was freezing, but that only made it more exhilarating. Floating in that crystal-clear lake, surrounded by volcanoes and open sky,  it was the kind of moment you never forget, no matter how cold your toes are.

Queenstown:

• Patagonia Chocolates - Ice Creamery & Chocolaterie - ££
•  Ivy & Lola's - Kitchen & Bar -  ££
• Jed's Coffee Co -£

Fox Glacier:

• The White Pub & Café - ££
• Full of Beans -£££

Hokitika:

• South Africa Café & Groceries  -£
• Hokitika Regent Theatre Café -££

Blackball:

• Formerly The Blackball Hilton - £

North Island

• World famous Sheffield Pies -£
• The Garden Depot -£
• Palate -£££