It isn't the first time I've been to New Zealand, and it won't be the longest stay either. I've had the fortunate opportunity to visit New Zealand several times, including representing my school for the youth exchange programme back on November 26th, 1996. What an incredible opportunity it was for a young kid! But let's save that story for another day. Today, after many years, I have arrived once again to a place that holds a special place in my heart. There has always been a soft spot for this place. So why not begin my endless holiday here?
Hello Auckland, taken at Stanley Bay Park..
The flight was early, and after a wild night with my friends back home, it was tough. However, it turned out to be the smoothest flight I've ever experienced. At times, it felt like we were suspended in the air, without a sound or a bump, as smooth as a hot knife through butter. But we made it, and here I am, writing the first of many entries in a campervan on the water's edge at Takapuna Beach Holiday Park. It's simply perfect.
329.6 kilometers later, I have finally arrived in Tauranga, my old stomping ground. I decided to visit my old school and take in the sights that I remembered from my time here. However, as expected, everything has changed. Nevertheless, during my drive, which was originally planned to take only 3 hours, I ended up spending around 9 hours on the road. The roads are just too beautiful to rush through, and speeding would mean missing out on the breathtaking natural beauty around me. One such place I discovered was Karangahake Gorge, an old gold mine.
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Mount Minden Heights lookout, a random find in Taraunga.
Today, I have added another 425.3 kilometers to the campervan's mileage as I explore the sights of Rotorua. I reached TE Puia, the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, a place I have visited multiple times before with the student exchange program and my family. To reminisce, I dug out some old photos and attempted to reenact them to the best of my ability. However, it's evident that things have certainly changed over the past 20 plus years. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable experience retracing the steps and reliving the memories I have of this place.
After a day of continuous rain and some unexpected earthquakes, it was time to depart from Tauranga and continue my journey down the North Island. With over 645 kilometers now on the campervan's odometer, I find myself parked next to a river near Lake Taupo. Today was a photographer's dream, with stunning waterfalls and clear blue skies. But before I delve into that, I must share the exciting news—I MADE IT TO MIDDLE-EARTH! That's right, I visited the Hobbiton movie set in Matamata. It was absolutely awesome to see the charming little town and even enjoy a refreshing ale at The Green Dragon. And, of course, I couldn't resist knocking on Bilbo Baggins' door, though, as you may have guessed, he wasn't home. Still, it was worth a try.
The Shire - Bilbo Baggins House at Hobbiton Movie set
Today was a day for recreating a family photo on Lake Taupo and indulging in some much-needed "me" time. I reminded myself to take it easy and not burn myself out, as this isn't just a holiday to explore one country but a chance to see the world. So, I embraced a more relaxed approach. I tried my hand at fishing and, to my delight, caught a famous Lake Taupo trout, just like my old man did over 28 years ago during a family vacation. While out on the lake, the skipper of the boat took me to Ngatoroirangi, a rock carving on the side of a cliff that overlooks the water. After returning from the fishing trip, I treated myself to a rejuvenating experience at the Wairakei Terraces hot springs, soaking in the therapeutic geothermal heat for the entire afternoon.
For a few days, I caught glimpses of a mountain hiding behind the clouds, its peaks adorned with snow. Countless times, I yearned for it to emerge and reveal its majestic presence. Finally, on my last day in Taupo, the clouds dispersed, unveiling the breathtaking beauty of Mount Ruapehu. I still vividly recall the last time I saw this mountain; it was devoid of snow back then. The ground trembled, and I witnessed the spectacle as plumes of smoke, ash, and lava spewed from its summit. As a young boy, I stayed up all night, captivated by the display. While it meant my ski trip was canceled, nothing on Earth can compare to the sheer power and awe-inspiring sight of a volcanic eruption.
Last time I saw this I was in a wood camping ground to the right at the base of the Mountain 1996 the eruption of Mount Ruapehu.
With an additional 200 kilometers added to the campervan's mileage, I am now approaching triple digits. During my travels, I visited the Otorohanga Kiwi House, where I had the chance to see a real kiwi bird. They truly are peculiar-looking creatures, but their uniqueness is something to be remembered, especially considering that future generations may not have the opportunity to see them. After bidding them farewell, I embarked on an underground adventure in the Waitomo Caves to witness the mesmerizing glow worms in their natural habitat.
It took me a total of 1,237 kilometers to witness the breathtaking sights of the North Island. After spending a night at a free camp in Onewhero, I made my way to Hunua Falls, where I savored the final view of New Zealand before departing. As I stood there, I couldn't help but affirm to myself that this is what life is truly about—no office, no meetings. We are meant to explore and embrace the wonders of the world.
Thank you for joining me on my adventure across the North Island of New Zealand. If you'd like to continue following my journey, please join me on my endless dream holiday blog. I would be thrilled if you liked, shared, and commented on any of the images I've captured along the way. Additionally, you can even consider picking up a print or product for yourself to bring a piece of this remarkable experience into your own life. Your support means the world to me.
