The Cook Islands – Rarotonga & Aitutaki are two of the most visited of the 15 major islands of this Pacific nation. When I decided Rarotonga would be my summer adventure and where I would see in the new year, I knew I had to include Aitutaki. I was told it is one of the…
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is the largest city in Aotearoa New Zealand and home to over 1.7 million people. The Auckland region reaches as far north as Wellsford and as far south as Pukekohe. It includes Aotea Great Barrier Island and all the other islands in the Hauraki Gulf. Within the region there are 27 Auckland…
Kiwi birds are an icon and taonga (treasure) of Aotearoa New Zealand. The word ‘Kiwi’ is also fondly used as a name to identify a New Zealander. To see kiwi birds in real life is a treat and there is nothing more special than seeing one in the wild, in their natural habitat. However, it…
Free hot pools are a treat that should not be missed if you are visiting the Rotorua area. The region is a geothermal wonderland so it comes as no surprise that there are a number of free hot pools to be discovered and enjoyed. Thermal waters are believed to have many health benefits including improving…
Tiritiri Matangi is an island paradise home to a plethora of native flora and fauna. Located in the Hauraki Gulf, just off the Whangaparaoa Peninsular, the island is easily accessible by boat. Thousands of visitors frequent the island each year to discover and enjoy the incredible birdlife. Many hope that they might be lucky to…
The legend of Maui identifies the South Island as Te Waka a Maui (Maui’s Canoe). It is from this canoe that Maui fished up Te Ika a Maui (Maui’s Fish), the North Island. Te Waipounamu translates to ‘the greenstone waters’ and is the name given to the South Island of Aotearoa New Zealand by early…
Tauranga City and the wider Tauranga region is a popular summer destination in the Western Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. It is home to an array of beautiful beaches, exceptional restaurants and cafes, a variety of events and festivals as well as gorgeous surrounds. Finding accommodation can be a challenge, especially over the summer holidays,…
NOTE: This competition is now closed To visit Antarctica is my ultimate bucket list trip! Why? Because I am pretty passionate about our environment and this world we live in. Nature is truly magical but unfortunately, in many places, we humans have taken some of that magic away. However, Antarctica is one place on earth…
Moutohorā (Whale Island) Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most awesome little treasures! A dormant volcano that sits less than 10kms off the coast of Whakatāne, it is a special piece of paradise. This island is pest and predator free which makes it the perfect place for many native species to thrive. This…
YOLO SOLO really captures the essence of my lifestyle and represents my desire, as a solo traveller, to live life to the fullest. It all began when family and friends requested to follow my travel and adventures that later evolved into a passion for writing about my experiences. I now have a blog and also write for…
