Everyone wants to feel that they've had a really unique experience when they visit another country. Tourism today can often feel very one-size-fits-all, a list of sights that need to be ticked off the list so you can say you have really 'done' the place. But now more and more travellers are seeking experiences off the beaten track, rather than what is included in the Lonely Planet Guide. With t...

Ah, the Marlborough Sounds. In many ways, it's like visiting the land that time forgot. Its rugged islands and miles of native bush stretching down to the sea look like something out of Jurassic Park. This is a place where you can truly unplug from the stresses of modern life and get into nature! Best of all, the Sounds have a plethora of fantastic hiking options. Queen Charlotte Sound's day wa...

The South Island usually receives the lion's share of attention in New Zealand tourism, and this isn't undeserved. There's picturesque mountains, stunning lakes, and miles of pristine wilderness. But this doesn't mean the North Island doesn't deserve a look in! It's better for travellers to think of the two islands as oranges and apples. It isn't really fair to compare them because their offeri...

Sitting next to Tasman bay between the two 'ears' at the top of the South Island, Nelson is extremely well-placed to explore the region. It's a 90-minute drive from Blenheim and its famous wine country, and just 1 hour from the splendor of Abel Tasman National Park. This makes it an easy stop during any trip through the region, and one that is well worth it. It's a relaxing, easygoing place tha...

No matter what country you are travelling in, visiting it's national parks is always a privilege. Recently, we experienced the true 'wow' factor - a personalised tour of the Rob Roy Glacier Track at Mt Aspiring National Park.  Thanks to some forward-thinking individuals, we have these remarkable landscapes available to us which make us appreciate what an incredible planet we live on. New Zea...