Archive for September 2026
Rediscovering my home town (Ōtautahi/Christchurch)
It’s interesting being a tourist in your own home town. So much has changed since the earthquakes of course and there is a definite sense of investment in the city and an energy of renewal and rebirth. There are also a lot more cars on the roads. For me it’s an experience of two halves.…
Read MoreKura Tāwhiti (Castle Hill, Canterbury)
The forecast told us that there might be snow en route, but we saw none at all and had a really pleasant drive from Hokitika on the West Coast through the spectacular Otira Gorge. We stopped for something to eat at Arthur’s Pass before heading to Kura Tāwhiti (Castle Hill). This was my first time…
Read MoreMotoring West – A five-day epic ‘roadie’ on SH6
Our itinerary: Nelson to Punakaiki – between Westport and Greymouth (two nights). Punakaiki to Franz Josef (one night). Franz Josef to Hokitika (two nights). Every time I drive to the West Coast I daydream about living there. I imagine buying a small place right by the sea and having the sound of thundering waves crashing…
Read MoreTasman Two-Day Getaway
Sometimes trips close to home can be just as restful if not better than a big expedition. We love exploring the Tasman region and two of our favourite places to stay are Kimi Ora Eco Resort in Kaiteretere and Golden Bay Lodge in Onekaka. Kimi Ora has epic views towards Kaiteretere Beach from most of…
Read MoreToi Toi Coffee House, Nelson
Toi Toi Coffee House, with Tania Raw If you’re looking for a coffee place to call your new ‘local’ then look no further than Toi Toi Coffee House. We have certainly embraced it as our favourite and proudly tell anyone we can that owner Tania Raw is serving the best coffee in Nelson. Tania is…
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