Driving Through New Zealand

In October of 2009, my husband and my two best travel buddies and I flew to New Zealand to pick up our KEA camper to begin a two-week driving adventure. We set out to conquer their heart-stopping adventure sports and take in their jaw dropping sceneries. ​

So this was the day we were all waiting for and actually dreading. The famous AJ Hackett bungee jump day 3Thrillogy!!
3 jumps in one day. We were told over and over by my friend Scott that you can't come to New Zealand and not bungee. This was never on my bucket list but I figured I might as well put it on the list since it was going to happen whether I wanted it to or not.

View of Queenstown with "the Ledge" bungee platform in the lower right corner.
If interested in our bungee jump video click the video below.

Each night we stayed at camper parks throughout both islands. We got into a routine of circling the park looking for the perfect private spot. Backing the Camper in, exploring the grounds like excited children then coming back together to prepare our dinner and open our New Zealand wines.

We made some amazing meals in this tiny kitchen of our camper.

We were fortunate enough to stay in the charming wine village of Martinborough. With over 30 boutique wineries surrounding a quaint town square, we never ran out of tasting opportunities. We all became well acquainted with varietals that we weren't well familiar with. Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc leading the way.

The meats and produce were by far the best we've ever had. Venison that melted in your mouth. Carrots that seemed translucent with a golden shine. Vegetables that were always firm and much more vibrant in color than anything we have here in the states. Why is that?

Miles and miles of pristine deserted beaches along the west coast of the South Island.

We went hiking in Able Tasman National Park. Miles of trail in the forest that parallels gorgeous coastline.