Road Trip to New Zealand, 25 January – 09 February 2025
Castle Hill Park
Located on the eastern side of the Southern Alps, this area is known for its karst rocks and is historically significant for bouldering with nearly 6,000 cli...
In the heart of the South Island, a unique landscape unfolds, revealing a geological wonder that has been sculpted by time and the elements. This area, known for its distinctive limestone formations, is a testament to the power of nature and the passage of millennia. These formations, often referred to as 'limestone castles', have been shaped by the forces of wind and water over countless years, resulting in an array of shapes and sizes that captivate the imagination.
The history of this place is as fascinating as its natural beauty. Evidence of early Maori occupation can be found in the form of rock art and other archaeological remains. The Maori name for the area, Kura Tawhiti, translates to 'treasure from a distant land', reflecting the spiritual significance of the site. European settlers arrived in the 19th century, drawn by the promise of pastoral farming. The area's unique geology also attracted the attention of the scientific community, leading to its recognition as a site of international geological importance.
Today, this location is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Rock climbers are drawn to the challenge of the limestone formations, while walkers and hikers enjoy the network of trails that wind through the landscape. The area is also a favourite among photographers, who are captivated by the dramatic shapes and shadows cast by the limestone formations. In winter, the snow-covered landscape takes on a magical quality, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of this unique place.
The area also holds a special place in popular culture. It served as a filming location for the 'Chronicles of Narnia' film series, its otherworldly landscape providing the perfect backdrop for the fantasy world of Narnia. This has added another layer of intrigue to the site, attracting fans of the films from around the world.
This remarkable location, with its unique geology, rich history, and stunning natural beauty, continues to captivate all who visit. Whether you're a rock climber seeking a new challenge, a history enthusiast keen to explore the past, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, this place offers something for everyone.
The history of this place is as fascinating as its natural beauty. Evidence of early Maori occupation can be found in the form of rock art and other archaeological remains. The Maori name for the area, Kura Tawhiti, translates to 'treasure from a distant land', reflecting the spiritual significance of the site. European settlers arrived in the 19th century, drawn by the promise of pastoral farming. The area's unique geology also attracted the attention of the scientific community, leading to its recognition as a site of international geological importance.
Today, this location is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Rock climbers are drawn to the challenge of the limestone formations, while walkers and hikers enjoy the network of trails that wind through the landscape. The area is also a favourite among photographers, who are captivated by the dramatic shapes and shadows cast by the limestone formations. In winter, the snow-covered landscape takes on a magical quality, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of this unique place.
The area also holds a special place in popular culture. It served as a filming location for the 'Chronicles of Narnia' film series, its otherworldly landscape providing the perfect backdrop for the fantasy world of Narnia. This has added another layer of intrigue to the site, attracting fans of the films from around the world.
This remarkable location, with its unique geology, rich history, and stunning natural beauty, continues to captivate all who visit. Whether you're a rock climber seeking a new challenge, a history enthusiast keen to explore the past, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, this place offers something for everyone.
Auckland
Known for its stunning harbours, it's a place where the urban environment perfectly blends with the natural beauty. The cityscape is a mix of high-rise build...
Queenstown
Known as the Mecca of outdoor leisure activities, this small town of 16,000 people offers over 220 different activities, including bungy jumping. It's nestle...
Fiordland National Park
This expansive reserve, one of the largest in the country, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It is a place where towering peaks mee...
Te Anau
Experience a thrilling jet boat ride across the River Shotover in Fiordland National Park. This high-adrenaline activity lasts about 3 hours, offering unmatc...
Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
The park forms part of the Te Wahipounamu region, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Milford Sound
Located in the heart of the Te Wahipounamu region, this area is rich in waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and mountains, filled with fjords. It boasts lush vegetati...
Pukaki
It's a village next to a lake of the same name, where a hotel is situated. It's a 5 1/2 hour journey, covering 358 km.
Castle Hill Park
Located on the eastern side of the Southern Alps, this area is known for its karst rocks and is historically significant for bouldering with nearly 6,000 cli...
Lake Tekapo
Known for its striking turquoise hue, the lake's color is a result of finely ground rock particles, known as rock flour, carried into the lake by the melting...
Paroa
Located on the eastern side of the Southern Alps, it's a small seaside village known for its hotel offering double rooms with bathrooms.
Pancake Rocks
A rocky shore of eroded limestone cliffs, underground caverns and strange formations. High tide compresses waves in the caves, creating natural fountains.
Cape Foulwind
This scenic spot on New Zealand's west coast offers a walking path with various stops to observe seals breeding.
Abel Tasman National Park
It's the smallest National Park in New Zealand, situated on the northern side of the South Island.
Motueka
The seaside village is a perfect overnight stop, offering accommodation at a 3-star garden motel. The motel provides 2-bedroom apartments equipped with a bat...
Wellington
The capital of the North Island is reached by a 4-hour ferry crossing from Picton port. The journey features impressive landscapes and turquoise waters.
Picton
A port town known for its ferry services to the North Island and the capital, Wellington. The ferry journey across the strait takes about 4 hours.
Te Papa Museum
Explore the rich history of New Zealand, captured in wonderful snapshots at a renowned cultural institution in Wellington.
Tongariro National Park
Lake Taupo
Situated on the south side of the country's largest lake, formed in a supervolcano crater, is the village of Turangi. It's a gateway to the spectacular Tonga...
Tongariro
Experience a full-day hike through a unique triple volcanic complex, passing through Soda Springs, the Devil's Ladder, and the rim of Red Crater. Weather per...
Wai-O-Tapu
In the heart of the Pacific, there exists a geothermal wonderland, a testament to the Earth's raw power and beauty.
Lake Rotorua
This picturesque body of water, the second largest in the region, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike
Pohutu Geyser
In the heart of the Pacific, there lies a natural wonder that has been a source of fascination for centuries
Hell's Gate Geothermal Field
The area is renowned for its unique geothermal features, including hot springs, mud pools, and steam vents. The landscape is a stark contrast to the lush gre...
Hobbiton
This enchanting location, a sprawling 12-acre landscape, is a living, breathing tribute to a beloved literary world. It is a place where visitors can step in...
Waitomo Cave
Known for the glowing fireflies Arachnocampa luminosa, endemic to New Zealand, it offers an impressive spectacle with live lights. Explore it by boat.