In November 2019, my wife and I embarked on an unforgettable journey to New Zealand, a land of breathtaking landscapes, adrenaline-filled adventures, and serene beauty. Here’s an overview of our trip, packed with incredible experiences and awe-inspiring moments.
Landing in Christchurch
The adventure began in Christchurch, where we landed and picked up a pre-arranged rental car. With its wide streets and a touch of old English charm, Christchurch was the perfect starting point for the road trip that lay ahead. Driving through the scenic South Island turned out to be as much a part of the experience as the destinations themselves.
Trekking at Fox Glacier
One of the absolute highlights of our trip was trekking at Fox Glacier. The journey to this icy wonderland began with an exhilarating helicopter ride that offered stunning aerial views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. Once on the glacier, we were equipped with crampons, and the guided trek felt like stepping into another world—a sparkling frozen expanse carved by nature over centuries. It was both humbling and thrilling to explore this unique landscape.
Overnight Cruise at Milford Sound
Another unforgettable highlight was the overnight cruise at Milford Sound. As we glided through the fiord’s calm waters, sheer cliffs rose dramatically on either side, waterfalls cascaded from great heights, and the mist added a mystical aura. Spending the night aboard the boat, surrounded by untouched wilderness, was a surreal experience—a true escape into nature’s grandeur.
Notable Stops Along the Way
- Stargazing in Lake Tekapo: Lake Tekapo’s dark sky reserve offered some of the best stargazing we’ve ever experienced. Under a blanket of stars, the Milky Way felt close enough to touch.
- The Drive to Mount Cook: Driving to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak, was a visual treat. Snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and vast open plains made every turn of the road a postcard-worthy moment.
- Wanaka Town: This charming lakeside town was the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll and a bit of local exploration. The serene beauty of Lake Wanaka and its surroundings was hard to leave.
- Glowworm Caves in Te Anau: Visiting the glowworm caves in Te Anau was like stepping into a magical underworld. The tiny bioluminescent creatures illuminated the caves, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Departing from Queenstown
The trip ended in Queenstown, aptly nicknamed the adventure capital of the world. Though we didn’t have time to try everything on offer, the vibrant energy of the town was infectious. With its incredible views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains, Queenstown was a fitting finale to a journey filled with natural wonders and thrilling experiences.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand in November was a dream. From icy glaciers to sparkling lakes, from thrilling adventures to peaceful stargazing, the trip was a perfect blend of excitement and serenity. Each moment felt like a gift, and we are already dreaming of the day we can return to this magical place.