#TBT New Zealand

We arrived in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand almost two weeks ago. Jonathan and I were traveling between Queenstown and Christchurch and we were interested to see what this small town in the middle of two of New Zealand's largest cities had to offer.

Lake Tekapo is a picturesque town with a large lake and snow capped mountains in the backdrop. Unfortunately, we experienced a terrible windstorm the day we were there. We settled into our lodge and walked to the market to grab our grub for dinner. We were considering the hot springs after the market but the aforementioned windstorm blew our plans out of the water. Since the wind was not showing any sign of settling down we decided that our time there was better spent indoors. After a hectic and fast paced three weeks, we welcomed this much needed quiet time to reflect on our time in New Zealand.

We chatted about our experience and I started a word association game about New Zealand. We took turns sharing the first words/phrases that came to mind when we thought of our time in the land of the long white cloud. I have decided to share the top 20 words/phrases because I think its an fun and efficient way to summarize this beautiful country. We took a massive amount of pictures and since I heard that they speak a thousand words I am sharing several of my favorites as well. Unfortunately, it is impossible to capture all the sights, smells, sounds, flavors, and the feelings we experienced but this is the best we could do to help transport you there. Feel free to leave any comments or questions below if you are puzzled...

1. Sweet As
2. Sheep
3. Maori
4. Kia Ora
5. All Blacks
6. Mountains
7. Kiwi bird, people,fruit, experience, etc.
8. Hokey Pokey
9. Fish n chips
10. Old Mout Stout
11. Geothermal
12. Bungy
13. Glowworms
14. Rafting
15. Sauvigon Blanc
16. Hummus
17. Lakes
18. Sand Dunes
19. Volcanoes
20. Pavlova

I saw this in a newspaper during our first breakfast in Auckland. I don't believe in horoscopes, but in all good fun it was right on the ball.

 

On the ferry to Waiheke Island for some wine tasting.

 

First and I'm assuming not the last time I see one of these scary signs...

 

#mancrusheveryday

 

 

 

At the Christchurch Botanical Gardens...

 

Cape Reigna, a spiritual place for the Maori's

 

Today marks one month since hitting the road and I am so thrilled that we took this leap of faith. Many more updates to come from the land of koalas and kangaroos!

 

"It's pretty simple. Adventure is what you make it. And whether it is the travel, the discovery or just the feeling of letting go; the only way you'll ever find out is to get out there and do it." -Travis Rice