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Christchurch

It all started when we landed (as a trip usually starts) but CHRIST this city was spectacular!  With a time constraint we had shortly set out on a seemingly timeless experience!  A mix of old and new screaming for attention and remembrance, but what truly struck were the murals spotted around in each corner that meets the eye.  Bold and beautiful unique and unbelievable, they will be sure to feature in some quirky shots.

A must do is the botanical gardens (to make it even better its free).  Stroll through these grounds and capture the serene nature and feel a sense of peace in this bustling capital city.

Hokatika

“All Aboard the Trans Alpine Express!”  Sit back, relax and take in these untouched lands of the south island as we made our way through Arthur’s pass to the end destination on the west coast.  On todays journey we can expect sparkling eyes featuring a whole lot of wonder and a touch of awe as a sight is locked on the mountains and valleys that stretch for miles.

Time to pick up the car because it only gets better from here!  These animals will be running wild with the full freedom of a “you beaut” set of wheels!  Now to learn how to drive the thing!  I‘ll leave that for mum…. Step one for me…strap up! Step 1 for her – find the handbrake when there is no leaver in sight.  My advice….forget the nav, take a sharp right turn and pullover, because if we are on the road (and she’s behind the wheel) you are bound to be road kill in no time.

Follow the untouched coastline hugging it to your hearts content until you release in Hokatika the town of jade.  A tiny town with so much to offer including one of the most gorgeeeeeous places.  The Hokitika  gorge is officially the bluest of blue waters, and if you are not struck by this sight alone you are probably struck with frozen hands and toes, so rug up because it is well worth the walk.  This town is hidden with the most of amazing trails and waterfalls so stock up on coffee because a day of adventure awaits.

With a quick one night stop on the beachfront, we set out on the scenic route to glacier country.  With my important responsibility of AUX cord control DJ Miller thought “Life is a Highway” seemed suitable to kick start the day.  Although this highway was not just a highway as a few off route turns were definitely not for the better as these hidden gems we’d seek out were not existent.  Adding not only minutes but probably hours our rainforest retreat was here to save the day.  And this place definitely fulfilled its justice.  From flash dorms to cottages and our very own upgraded treehouse complaints were at a minimum from us drifting away in the included hot tub.  “You can’t go to Glacier Country and not see the Glaciers”  With that said we started hiking! Franz Joseph we are coming to get you.

Next stop Wanaka and for this one you might just “Want a car”.  For today’s recipe you will need a good set of legs, about 10 jackets and a fully charged camera.

Step 1 – Find the lake.

Step 2 – Walk around it

Step 3 – Find the floating tree.

Now that you have combined these 3 steps you may create your alternative path to suit you.  Lastly before cleaning up and heading home catch the sunset and soak it up because no photo will ever do it justice.

With a hop, skip and a jump via the Bra Fence and one of New Zealand’s oldest and most Iconic hotels the Cardrona Hotel we were on our way to the adventure capital…. Queenstown.  I think it’s called this so that you feel like royalty when you blow all your money splurging on these adrenaline filled activities.

 Tip no 1 – Don’t go on the pub crawl the night before or you will be putting the “ill” in thrill.

Here’s what we did !: –

– Shotover Jet boat ride

– The Haunted House

– Parasailing

– Odyssey maze

– The gondola

and Fergburger (I had to mention it and you will find out why).

Now that you have lived up Queenstown it’s time to lace up your shoes and throw on a beanie because your next stop is the 8^th Wonder of the World (yes, I know there is only 7….but just you wait).  You have now entered a fairytale of emerald green waters and mountains so big you feel miniature.  It’s called Milford Sound but the only sound you will be hearing is your heart beating out of your chest (especially when you spot the seals).

So there you go that’s our trip, now let mum create yours.