I realised that the driver of the expensive 4 x 4 wasn’t going to stop just before I stepped off the kerb onto a narrow inner city street lined with other shiny 4 x 4s and renovated villas. Perhaps I should… Read More ›
South Island
Finding inspiration in Kaiteriteri
There is no limit to what can be achieved when determined minds come together. And if it happens in a beautiful place, the results can be extraordinary. I can see how true that is right now. I’m in Kaiteriteri, a… Read More ›
Christmas in the wool shed
Who would have thought that a red wool shed surrounded by rows and rows of tidy green vines could be a Christmas wonderland? But there is a special place Marlborough where it is true. Each year, four lovely ladies create magic… Read More ›
Christchurch, city of colour
Christchurch is a city in transition. The earthquakes that started in September 2010 and culminated in the devastating quake on 22 February 2011 forced the city to re-imagine itself and that is exactly what it is doing. The people who… Read More ›
A hotel with comfort and charm: Governors Bay
Finding a place to stay that is comfortable and charming and has incredible views is surprisingly hard, even in this beautiful country that has so many picturesque spots. So when I find one, I want to shout about it from… Read More ›
North versus South
There’s always been a friendly rivalry between the North and South Islands of New Zealand. It’s like a relationship between siblings- competitive, sometimes niggly but also protective and loyal. Picking a favorite island would be like picking a favorite child. You… Read More ›
The West Coast: a Road Less Travelled
Mention to anyone that you’re planning a road trip in the South Island and they will immediately tell you stories of spectacular coastal roads and rugged mountain passes. “Picture postcard moments around every corner” they’ll say and they’d be right…. Read More ›
Havelock: gateway to the Sounds
There are 2 Havelock’s in New Zealand. The one I visited recently is right at the top of the South Island. The other one is in Hawke’s Bay in the North Island and is called Havelock North to avoid confusion…. Read More ›
Bolshy Blackball
The thing I like about road trips is that you never know where you will end up for the night. On the first day of a 5-day adventure, I had a vague notion to head west from Christchurch across Arthur’s… Read More ›
Who was Arthur?
There are three main routes across the Southern Alps for cars but many more for those hardy and brave enough to tackle the journey on foot. Arthur’s Pass is the most direct route from Christchurch to Greymouth on the West… Read More ›
