Always looking for a new adventure and with wanderlust in my veins, last summer, I was approached with an opportunity to tour New Zealand for two weeks this spring. I jumped on it. How could I not want to go to the adventure travel mecca and experience its beauty, genuine Kiwi hospitality, and some of its adrenaline sports like bungy jumping? You bet, I seized the opportunity in a hurry. And, how glad I am that I did.
New Zealand is one of my favorite destinations to date. Firstly, adventure sports are everywhere; Kiwis love kayaking, SCUBA diving, sailing, tramping (aka hiking), bungy jumping, biking, and anything crazy and active. Plus, the country is just absolutely breathtaking from Auckland’s Harbour and Waiheke Island to Akaroa outside of Christchurch and the Sounds of the South Island. And, coming from a hobby farm in Wisconsin, where my parents raised sheep, I especially loved seeing the cute sheep dotting the countryside. I’ll let you in on a little known secret; although my nickname is Ms Traveling Pants, my real name is Heidi. My parents thought it would be cute to have a little girl in braids named Heidi running around the farm amongst the flock of sheep. Yes, I know the book Heidi has goats, but potato patato.
I have yet to be back home (Kauai) for two weeks; however, I have had just enough time to put together a quick video that highlights Auckland, my bungy jump off the Auckland Harbour Bridge, Bay of Islands, Tramping in Tauranga, Wellington, Sailing in Akaroa, and Milford Sound. Please sit back with a Steinlager (my favorite kiwi beer) or a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (my go to wine) and enjoy the video.
What did you think? Do you want to know more about my bungy jump or other parts of my kiwi adventure? As always, stay up-to-date on more adventure travel stories and tips from New Zealand, Australia, Kauai, and more by connecting with me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube. And, please share your best New Zealand adventure travel stories and/or tips. Come on, rattle your dags (in NZ it means Hurry Up coming from the sound a flock of sheep makes when running with their rear end dreadlocks.) I love hearing from my adventurers near and far.
Here’s to more good times and good stories.