Top 5 Hikes of New Zealand

Stewart Island hike

The best experiences of New Zealand are not found in a museum, restaurant, or anywhere near a city.  New Zealand is best seen and experienced outdoors.  The best way to get out and see the beauty of New Zealand is by hiking (or "tramping" as Kiwi's call it) the countryside.  I have hiked trails across both the North and South Island, in both the summer and winter.  Here are five hikes that every visitor to New Zealand should experience. 

5. Stewart Island
Stewart Island is located off of the southern tip of New Zealand's South Island.  Stewart Island is rugged, isolated, beautiful----and missed by most tourists to New Zealand.  You will feel like you are at the end of the world on Stewart Island (which is sort of true!).  Hiking tracks on the island range from a couple of hours to a couple of weeks.  If you are really lucky, you might even spot an elusive Kiwi bird on Stewart Island.  

4. Franz Joseph Glacier

The Franz Joseph Glacier is not a typical choice for a list of top hikes.  Unlike every other trail on this list, hiking Franz Joseph requires paying for a guide and special equipment.  However, hiking the glacier is a unique experience that should not be missed.  On Franz Joseph Glacier, one will experience a world of ice caves, glacial pools, and ice falls...all in a slow motion flight down the mountain.  

3. Milford Track

Milford Sound Waterfall

Most people (myself included) experience the Milford Sound the easy way; through a boat cruise.  The best way to see the beauty of the Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park is by hiking the the Milford Track.  The trail is 53.5 km long and winds through mountains, rainforests, and along fiords.  The track may only be walked in one direction, and during peek season only 40 people per day are allowed to start on the trail.  If you plan to hike the Milford Track, be sure to plan ahead and make reservations through the Department of Conservation.  

2. Queen Charlotte Track

Queen Charlotte Track bridge

The Queen Charlotte Track is a 71 km walking and bike trail that hugs the shore of the Marlborough Sound on the northern portion of the South Island.  The trail is open to hikers and bikers of all ages abilities.  Unlike most hikes in New Zealand, there are few steep hills or treacherous terrain to tackle.  You will, however, encounter breathtaking views of forests, rivers, coves, inlets, and beaches.  One can choose to travel the entire 71 km trail over several days or travel only a portion of the trail and take a water taxi back to the trail head.  

1. Tongariro Crossing
The Tongariro Crossing is considered by many to be the best one-day hike in the world.  It is a one day hike through the mountains, lakes, and volcanoes of the central portion North Island.  Fans of the Lord of the Rings films will recognize several locations on the hike that are featured prominently in the film.  Weather and volcano eruptions can and will close the trail at any time of the year.  Rough weather closed the Tongariro Crossing for over a week both times I visited, preventing me from being able to take the hike.  Not being able to hike the Tongariro Crossing remains the single biggest travel regret of my life!  

Photo of the Week: Queen Charlotte Track

This week's photo was taken on New Zealand's most famous hiking trail; the Queen Charlotte Track.  The Queen Charlotte Track follows along the Marlborough Sound and is located on the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island.   Believe it or not, this photo was taken in July, smack dab in the middle of the New Zealand winter.  Even though the air temperature was just above freezing, the mid-day sun had drenched this little bay enough to make it almost seem tropical.  

Queen Charlotte Track

Photo of the week is part of "Photo Thursday" at the Budget Travelers Sandbox.  Please visit to check out other amazing photos! 

Fall from 12,000 Feet

Heights scare me.  But I also don't want to miss out on any adventures, which explains how I got talked into skydiving by friends.  Several years ago, I worked up the courage to go tandem skydiving over Lake Taupo, New Zealand.  This week's photo was taken just I began to fall out of the plane at 12,000 feet.  My tandem master was a total pro, and I ended up enjoying most of the experience.  Unfortunately, the adventure didn't cure me of my fear of heights, and even looking at this photo makes my stomach churn.

12,000 Feet Freefall

Photo of the week is part of "Photo Thursday," started by Nancie at the Budget Travelers Sandbox. Please visit her site to check out other amazing photos!

Photo of the Week: Smart Bird!

The Kea is the smartest bird I have ever met.  It is a member of the parrot family, a native bird of New Zealand, and a bird well known by locals for it's intelligence.

I found this out first-hand as I unloaded skis from my car at Treble Cone Ski Resort near Wanaka, New Zealand.  I turned to close the trunk of my car, and in the few seconds that I had turned my back, a Kea y made off with part of my lunch!  Kias have even been known to open up backpacks, take out food, and zip the bag back up!  I know it sounds like a myth, but just wait until you meet one of these pesky birds!  This photo is of the little bugger that ate my lunch! 

 

 

Kea, Wanaka, New Zealand

Photo of the week is part of "Photo Thursday," started by Nancie at the Budget Travelers Sandbox.  Please visit her site to check out other amazing photos! 

Top 5 Movies for Travel

Movies are a great window into places and cultures that would otherwise be impossible for the average person to see.  Often, these same films inspire people (including myself) to travel to the locations featured in films.  It would be impossible to list all of the films that inspire travel.  Instead, I narrowed my list to five movies by setting a couple of rules; 1. I must have personally traveled to the location of the film.  2. The movie must be good!  The movies I chose are great at giving you a slice of life somewhere else in the world without ever having to leave your couch.  But be careful, you might book an unplanned vacation if you watch any one of these films!

5. 50 First Dates, Hawaii

50 First Dates is a comedy set in Hawaii that tracks the odd romance between  a marine veterinarian and woman with short-term memory loss.  Much of 50 First Dates was filmed in and around Kaneohe, Hawaii, which just happens to be where I worked my first summer out of college.  50 First Dates captures both the natural beauty of Hawaii and the humor of the people that live on the islands.  Travel Tip: If you go to Hawaii, check out the authentic Hawaiian food of real-life Hukilau Cafe (which doesn't look anything like the film version)!  

4. The Hangover, Las Vegas

Not only is The Hangover one of the best comedies of the past decade, it is also my favorite movie set in Las Vegas.  The plot of the film follows three friends, nicknamed the "wolf pack," as they explore Las Vegas trying to comprehend what happened on one crazy night of a bachelor party.  The Hangover inspires the kind of behavior that given Las Vegas the nickname of "Sin City."  The Hangover is a must-see film if you are planning a getaway to Las Vegas where you want what happens there to stay there!   
 
3. Under the Tuscan Sun, Italy

Have you ever wanted to pull up your roots and start over in a completely new place?  To cope with a bitter divorce, a middle-aged author (played by Diane Lane) buys a dilapidated estate in Tuscany Italy.  By rebuilding the house, Lane's character is also able to rebuild her life.  Though Diane Lane is the headline actress, the real star of the film is the Tuscan countryside.  Watching Under the Tuscan Sun inspired my second trip to Italy.  Taking a hint from the film, I focused on enjoying the culture of Italy rather than running from site to site, making the whole experience much more enjoyable.

2. When Harry Met Sally, New York City

There is no better place in the world to film a romantic comedy than New York City.  Simply put, When Harry Met Sally is the best romantic comedy filmed in the Big Apple.  The film follows two friends, played by Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, as they struggle through relationships before finding each other.  When Harry Met Sally showcases New York City in every season, with scenes filmed in Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Washington Square Park.  Meg Ryan's famous "faking it" scene was filmed at Katz Deli. My wife and I make it a point to watch When Harry Met Sally before each trip to get into a "New York state of mind."

1. Whale Rider, New Zealand

The "Lord of the Rings" trilogy are too often mentioned as the only movies to be filmed in New Zealand.  The truth is that New Zealand's dramatic scenery has made it a popular set location for major studio films.  The Last Samurai, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Bridge to Terabithia are just a few of the more recent movies filmed in New Zealand. One film stands above the rest in capturing the "real" New Zealand; Whale Rider.  Whale Rider is able to accurately capture the culture and scenery of rural Maori life on New Zealand better than any other film.  In 2003, I taught in a small Maori school on the Bay of Plenty, and watching Whale Rider brings back the sounds, smells, and sights of my time there.  If you can't afford a plane ticket to New Zealand, watch Whale Rider to get a small piece of the Pacific paradise. 

Top 5 New Zealand Adventure Activities

I traveled to New Zealand a cautious individual to take in the majestic scenery of the country, but left a thrill-seeker looking for new ways to feed my new-found craving for adrenaline.  I believe the extreme landscapes of the rugged country have led New Zealand to become the world's top adventure activity destination.  Below are my five favorite adventure activities that I have completed so far; please comment and let me know what I have missed!

Franz Josef Glacier H

5. Hike the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier
The Franz Joseph and Flox Glaciers are the West Coast of New Zealand's top tourist destinations, for good reason.  The 12km rivers of ice are unpredictable and constantly moving, creating landscapes that look like they belong on icy planet billions of miles from earth.  There are options to see the glacier for just about every level of adventure and cost, including hikes, helicopter tours, and ice climbing!  Touring the glaciers will let you see immensity and power of glaciers that can't be conveyed by pictures of video alone.  If you are really looking for an adventure, ask your tour guide to let you take a "polar plunge" in one of the many glacial pools!  


4. Rock n Ropes in Lake Taupo

Ropes Course New Zealand

Rock'n Ropes is a ropes course with challenges up to 13 meters in the air.  Rock'n Ropes is located five minutes north of Lake Taupo.  The course has a rickety bridge, high wires, a trapeze, and many other challenges.  I was surprised by how simple tasks (like walking) became extremely difficult once I was 13 meters in the air.  For me, the highlight of the course was a giant swing that made my stomach drop more than any roller coaster or amusement park ride.  Completing the course gave me the courage to some of the other NZ adventure activities, like bungee jumping and sky diving!  

3. Spelunking the Waitomo Caves
Located on the North Island an hour from Hamilton, the Waitomo Caves are believed to be over two million years old.  They are home to "glow worms" that line the cave and do just what their name suggests.  I explored the Waitomo Caves with Waitomo Adventures. because they offer the most hands-on, strenuous, and exciting tour.  On the tour, I abseiled (rapelled) into the caves, climbed rock cliffs, crawled through cave tunnels, battled underground waterfalls, and got up close and personal with those famous glow worms.  This adventure is not for those uncomfortable in cramped spaces, scared of the dark, or afraid to get wet (you even wear a wet suit)!  By the end of the tour, I was exhausted, but thrilled that I had seen New Zealand's mystifying underworld. 

2. Skydive Taupo

Skydive over Lake Taupo

It seems like New Zealand has more skydiving locations than any other nation.  You can skydive over Abel Tasman, Lake Taupo, Queenstown, Auckland, Wanaka...the list could go on.  I chose to sky dive over Lake Taupo because it was cheaper than most other locations, but you really can't go wrong with all of the options available in New Zealand.  If you do go, I would suggest paying a little extra to have the entire experience video taped so that your friends and family can relive the adventure with you!

1. Bungee Jump in Queenstown 

Kawarau Bridge Bungee

Queenstown is the adventure and thrill capital of New Zealand.  So much so, that AJ Hackett Bungy has built three separate locations around Queenstown where you can put your life into the hands of an elastic band.  I bungee jumped "The Ledge" locate. d on the mountain above Queenstown.  "The Ledge" is cool because the bungee cord is attached to your waist instead of your feet, allowing for a running start.  "The Nevis," a bungee jump located on a cable car stretched between two cliffs outside of Queenstown, is the highest bungee in New Zealand at a whopping 134 meters!

Photo of the Week: Moeraki Boulders

This week's photo is from New Zealand's Moeraki Boulders.  The unique boulders are located on the east coast of the South Island.  The spherical boulders are scattered throughout the beach are several meters diameter.  I visited the boulders with some friends from the Netherlands that I had met while backpacking around New Zealand's South Island.  This particular photo was snapped as one friend stood on a boulder to scan the ocean for dolphins while the others played on the beach.  

Moeraki Boulders, New Zealand

Photo of the week is part of "Photo Thursday," started by Nancie at the Budget Travelers Sandbox.  Please visit her site to check out other amazing photos! 

Ropes Course Taupo, New Zealand

Rock'n Ropes Trapeze Swing

Attention all adrenaline junkies, thrill seekers, and adventurous souls of New Zealand.  Just north of Lake Taupo is one of New Zealand's best adventure activities that will galvanize your sense of courage.  If you are thinking skydiving or bungee jumping, you'd be wrong.  I am talking about the Rock'n Ropes ropes course.  Unlike tandem skydiving or bungee jumping, which anyone can do with their eyes shut, completing a ropes course requires focus and determination.  I decided to try Rock'n Ropes  because I wanted to overcome my own fear of heights.  While I am still a bit leery of of heights, completing Rock'n Ropes did give me the courage to bungee jump and skydive later in my trip to New Zealand. 

What to Expect

There are several options at Rock n Ropes, from a half day of fun to a single nerve rattling swing, to test your comfort with heights.  I chose the half day course which allows you to experience every thrill and challenge of Rock n Ropes.  As part of the high-rise course, I walked across narrow beams and wires, swung on a trapeze, and even balanced on the end of a log 13 meters (40 feet) above the ground!  I was surprised by how difficult even the most simple tasks, such as standing tall, became once I was high in the air.  Rock n Ropes is more a mental challenge than a physical one.  Even though I have a fear of heights, I never felt unsafe.  Safety was clearly the top priority at Rock'n Ropes.  Before trying any of the obstacles, the staff ensured that our safety harnesses and helmets were properly attached.  Though the staff encouraged us to have fun, they never pressured  us to attempt a portion of the course if we felt uncomfortable.

Rickety Bridge Ropes Course

If you are can't commit to the half day ropes course, there are shorter options available.  The Adrenaline combo let's you try the High Beam, Trapeze, and Giant Swing for $40NZ.   If you are on a really tight schedule, you can also try just the Giant Swing for $20NZ.  Be warned; it is intense.  For me, it ranked just short of bungee jumping in terms of thrill factor. 

Just the Basics

• Cost Rock'n Ropes: 
• Half Day: $65NZ
• Adrenaline Combo: $40NZ
• Giant Swing: $20
• Website: http://www.rocknropes.co.nz/ 
• Phone: Freephone- 0800 244508, reservations highly recommended
• Rock'n Rope Location: 5 minutes north of Taupo on State Hwy 1.  They also offer pickup from Taupo accommodations. 
• Advice: Bring sturdy shoes, sunglasses, and a sense of adventure. 

Milford Sound

Milford Sound

The Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most recognized wonders.  Not only is the Milford Sound the country's most photographed attraction, it was also featured in the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.  Anyone that has seen the breathtaking beauty of the sound understands why photographers and film makers are drawn to the area.  In 2008, Tripadvisor named the Milford Sound the world's top travel destination!   

Milford Sound cliffs and waterfalls

What to Expect

The Milford Sound is a fjord in the southwest of the South Island.  It runs 15km inland from from the Tasman Sea and is surrounded by mountains that reach nearly 5,000 feet.  The sheer cliffs that rise from the water are filled with lush forests and waterfalls.  Milford Sound weather is unpredictable.  Rainfall is a constant threat in the Milford Sound, as it receives more rainfall than any other inhabited place in New Zealand. 

The only drawback to the Milford Sound is getting there.  The nearest major cities, Queenstown and Invercargill, are still a 4 hour drive.   Weather can also create travel havoc on the mountainous roads to and from the Milford Sound.  I had to wait several days to visit because a winter blizzard had shut down all roads to the area.  It's remote location has not discourage to tourism however; nearly one million people visit every year.  Most tour groups leaving from Queenstown reach the Milford Sound around noon, which makes midday is most crowded time to visit.  If possible, lodge overnight near the sound, and take one of the morning tours to avoid the crowds. 

Nearly soaked by a Milford Sound waterfall

The Milford Sound can be explored by boat, airplane, helicopter, kayak, or even foot.  The most popular option is to take a boat cruise; I chose Mitre Peak Cruises for my tour.  Mitre Peak offers tours year-round and advertises itself as the only tour "that goes past St. Anne's lighthouse, and out into the Tasman Sea."  I liked that they had smaller boats to get up close and personal to both wildlife and waterfalls.  Our boat got close enough to one of the waterfalls to soak anyone not inside the cabin!  The entire tour took two hours, which was enough time to get a sense of what makes the area so special.   The meeting of mountains, cliffs, waterfalls, forest, and ocean have made the Milford Sound one of the most dramatic landscapes in the world. 

Just the Basics

• Location: A four hour drive from either Queenstown or Invercargill. 
• Cost: Cruise only is $68NZ ($50US).  Transportation from Queenstown is extra.  
• Website: http://www.mitrepeak.com/ 
• Advice: Bring a camera, pack rain gear, and book a morning cruise (to avoid crowds).

Photo of the Week

This is my favorite photo of New Zealand.  I snapped the photo during a hike of the Franz Josef glacier on New Zealand's South Island.  Apparently, it is a tradition for new tour guides to take a dip in one of the many glacial pools on their first hike.  I chose to stay try, but managed to snap this photo of a British backpacker who showed our group that glacial swims aren't just for the guides!

A polar plunge on the Franz Josef Glacier!

I am posting my photo early this week for blog4nz, a March 21-23 effort to  encourage tourism to New Zealand in the wake of the Christchurch earthquake.  The main message of blog4nz is simple: despite the quake, New Zealand is open for business!
 
Photo of the week is part of "Photo Thursday" started by Nancie at the Budget Travelers Sandbox.  Please visit her site to check out other amazing photos! 

New Zealand's Five Forgotten Best

Church of the Good Shepard, Lake Tekapo church

You can't go wrong when choosing an itinerary for New Zealand.  Popular tours and guidebooks do a great job of highlighting some of New Zealand's best sites; the Milford Sound, Wine Country, the Bay of Islands, Rotorua's thermal pools...the list could go on and on.  However, some of the best places to visit in New Zealeand are a little off of the beaten path.  All are places you should visit in New Zealand.  If you are lucky enough to spend an extended amount of time in the country, or you are visiting for a second (or third or fourth) time, consider visiting these "forgotten" wonders of New Zealand.    

Stewart Island

1. Stewart Island- Arguably the best place to hike in New Zealand (there are many "great walks" throughout the country), Stewart Island's location has kept many from visiting the island.  Located off of the South Island's southern tip, Steward Island is home to a population of less than 500 permanent residents.  It is precisely this isolation that has made Stewart Island such a great place to see the wilderness of New Zealand  If you want to experience New Zealand's most pristine and virtually untouched country, plan to visit and hike Stewart Island.

Caught on a Moeraki Boulder

2. Moeraki Boulders- Located on the South Island's East Coast near the village of Moeraki are a series of unusual boulders. The boulders, which are nearly perfect spheres in shape, are scattered throughout Koekohe Beach.  Some of the boulders are almost 6 feet in diameter and were created by simple wave erosion.  The boulder's are not reason alone to book a trip to New Zealand.  However, their location near Highway 1 make them an easy stop and great photo opportunity.  Be careful if you try to stand atop the boulders--if you time the waves incorrectly, you may end up losing your shoes to the ocean like I did!

White Island, New Zealand

3. White Island -New Zealand's only volcanic island, Steward Island is located on the Bay of Plenty near Whakatane.  Though you will have to endure an hour and half boat ride over rocky seas to get to White Island, you will get to walk the island and get see the volcano and it's effects on White Island up close.  The still-active volcano has created a landscape that looks like war-zone on another planet.  Touring White Island is also a more personalized way to see New Zealand's geothermic activity compared to tours in Rotorua. 

South Island West Coast

4. The Rustic West Coast-  Popular South Island itineraries often visit Christchurch, Queenstown, and the Milford Sound for those looking for a quick overview of New Zealand.  Unfortunately, these routes overlook the rustic and sparsely populated western coast that shouldn't be missed by anyone visiting the South Island.  A driving route from Westport to Queenstown gives one the opportunity to see the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, the pancake rocks, Hokitika (which is the best place to buy New Zealand jade), a rugged and stunning coastal road, and countless of other hidden "gems." 

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

5. Lake Tekapo- Lake Tekapo, with it's clear waters framed by the snow-covered Southern Alps, is New Zealand at it's best; laid back with breathtaking beauty.  The lake, which is located near the center of the South Island, is a great place to relax and take in New Zealand's dramatic scenery.  One of New Zealand's most photographed landmarks, the Church of the Good Shepard, is also on the shores of Lake Tekapo (see photo at top). If you are looking for more adventure, consider a bike or horse tour of the area, a scenic flight around Mt. Cook, or a visit to the Mt. John Observatory on a clear night. 

Whale Watching in Kaikoura

Kaikoura, New Zealand whale

Kaikoura, New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to get up close and personal to sperm whales. The whales are year-round residents of the area thanks to the 2km deep Kaikoura Canyon just off-shore.  Kaikoura is located between Christchurch and Picton on the South Island's Eastern Coast.  Besides whale watching, Kaikoura is also an excellent place to tour vineyards, swim with dolphins, or hike mountainous trails.  The company I toured with, Whale Watch, has a 95% success rate in spotting whales on their tours.  They are so confident that customers will see whales that they offer customers an 80% refund if they don't spot any whales! 

What to Expect

Whale Watch operates tours year-round at 7:15am, 10:00am, and 12:45am with an afternoon tour added from November to March.  A local advised me that Kaikoura whale watching is best in the morning, though I'm not sure if there is any scientific data to back-up the claim.  The total tour time is about 2.5 hours.  There is not food or beverage sold on board, so be sure to eat a snack beforehand (but not too much if you get motion sickness).

Kaikoura dolphins coming to play

The Whale Watch vessels were specially designed for whale watching.  They offer comfortable seating and viewing areas both inside and outside of the cabin.  I chose to sit on the inside cabin while we waited for whales, and then moved to the top deck to take pictures.  The boats have cool plasma screen TVs that, along with the guides, enhance the whole experience. During my tour we saw three different whales as they surfaced for air.  The whales were at the surface for about 5 minutes before they dove to deeps to feed.   Whales really do show a grace and intelligence unlike any other creature I have seen.  There is also a good chance that you will see dolphins during your tour--we had a small school swim along our boat.  

Kaikoura whale just before diving

Just the Basics

• Location: Kaikoura, NZ
• Cost: $145NZ (approximately $106US)
• Website: http://www.whalewatch.co.nz/
• Phone: 0800 655 121--You must call ahead to book tours.  
• Accommodation:  For advice on Kaikoura hotels, Kaikoura motels, and Kaikoura hostels, go to http://www.kaikoura.co.nz/
• Advice: Take motion sickness medication  before the whale watching tour if you are prone to seasickness.

Far away on Stewart Island

Stewart Island, the anchor of New Zealand

New Zealand is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.  Some of the best hikes in all of New Zealand can be found on Steward Island, off of the South Island's southern tip.  According to Maori legend, the island (known to the Maori as Rakiura) acts as the anchor for the South Island.   It is one of New Zealand's most pristine locations to hike, in part because it's location puts it off-the-beaten-path for many tourists.  

What to Expect

Stewart Island, NZ, is accessible only by a one-hour ferry ride from the city of Bluff ($66NZ one way) or by plane to it's only city, Ovan.  There are a variety of hotels and hostels in and around to fit nearly any budget.  Nearly the entire population of Stewart Island (which is only 400 people) lives in Oban. Be sure to purchase supplies in Oban if you plan on doing any extended hiking, as it is the only place on the island where you can buy supplies.  In the winter, island virtually shuts down, so Stewart Island is best visited in the summer.

Stewart Island; isolated and beautiful

The main activities for visitors to the island are to hiking and camping.  Approximately 85% of the island is covered by national park, much of it accessible only by walking track.  From Oban, there are hiking routes and trails designed to take anywhere from five minutes to several weeks. The three-day Rauikura track is considered to be one of the best walks in all of New Zealand.  Information on the Raikura Track Great Walk and other trails can be found on the Department of Conservation website. The weather on Stewart Island is consistently wet, so be sure to pack rain gear for any length of walk. 

Just the Basics

• Stewart Island Information and Accommodation:  http://www.stewartisland.co.nz/ 
• Stewart Island Hiking and Tramping:  Track and Walks information
• Transportation websites:  
• Flights to Stewart Island- http://stewartislandflights.com 
• Ferry to Stewart Island  http://www.stewartislandexperience.co.nz/ 
• Advice: Visit in the summer, bring rain gear and an adventurous spirit. 

White Island Volcano Tour

White Island, New Zealand

Recent earthquakes have shown how active geological processes are in New Zealand.  As part of the "Pacific Ring of Fire," earthquakes and volcanic activity are a part of life on both the North and South Island.  While Rotorua is the most well-known spot in New Zealand to see geothermic activity, you should also consider White Island.  White Island is New Zealand's only active island volcano.  A little off the beaten path, White Island is located 49 km from Whakatane, on the North Island's Bay of Plenty.   

White Island Volcano

What to Expect
White Island Tours of Whakatane operate the tours of the island.   You must call ahead for reservations.  I would also recommend taking motion-sickness medication before boarding the ship, as the seas out to White Island can be quite rough (several passengers on my tour became sea-sick).  The entire trip takes about six hours to complete.

After surviving the 80 minute boat ride over rough seas, you will get about an hour to actually walk the island.  With only a hard hat and gas mask for protection, you'll get a chance to get up close and personal to the main crater of the island as well as outlying sulfur pools (which explain the stench of the island).  Walking on the island feels a bit like stepping on a Martian landscape.  In my experience, touring White Island was more adventurous, up-close-and-personal, and enjoyable than tours in Rotorua (also famous for volcanic activity). 

Touring White Island, New Zealand

Just the Basics
Location: Whakatane, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
Company: White Island Tours
Cost: $185NZ, advance bookings required
Website: http://www.whiteisland.co.nz/  
Advice: Take motion sickness medication before boarding.

Bungy Jumping New Zealand

The Ledge Bungy, Queenstown

New Zealand is a well-known as a bungy (bungee) jumper's paradise .  Thrill-seekers can throw their body off of bridges, towers, cliffs, and even cable cars.  In Queenstown alone, there are three separate bungy jumping locations (all owned by AJ Hackett).  It is safe to say that bungy jumping is Queenstown's top activity.  Fresh from a successful skydive, I thought that bungy-jumping would be the next extreme sport to try.  Brimming with confidence, I headed to Queenstown to try my luck!

What to Expect
I examined the three bungee jumping options in Queenstown before making my decision on where to do my jump: The Kawarau Bridge, The Ledge, and the Nevis.  Each offered a slightly different take on bungy jumping.  

• "The Kawarau Bridge" is the world's first commercial bungy site.  It features a 43 meter fall with the option of being dunked head-first into the Kawarau River.  It is also the only place to in Queenstown where you can tandem-jump with a friend.  I passed on the Kawarau Bridge, because it seemed to "tame" for my tastes. 

• Next is "The Nevis," which is a 40 minute drive from Queenstown.  The Nevis Bungy is a 134 meter fall over the Nevis Gorge, making it New Zealand's highest bungy.  Jumpers make a leap from a cable car that is suspended between the gorge walls.  A fellow backpacker showed me a video that was shot of her making the leap.  It seemed as though her fall never ended.  Seeing the video made me realize I wasn't ready to test a jump so extreme! 

• The final option in Queenstown is "The Ledge" which is a platform built off the side of a mountain, 400 meters above Queensland.  With 47 meters of free-fall, it was slightly more extreme than the Kawarau Bridge without the excess of the Nevis.  It is also the only site where the bungy is secured around the waist instead of the feet, allowing for a running start to the free-fall. I like the idea of getting a running start, so I chose to jump at The Ledge.

To get to The Ledge, you must first ride to the top of the Skyline Gondola, which costs $25NZ ($20US).   The view of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains from the top is beautiful.   The Ledge platform is a short walk from the gondola.  

View from the top of the Gondola

Once I had paid and signed away my life, it took less that two minutes for the AJ Hackett employees to secure a harness and start the countdown for me to jump.  I tried to stall by asking them if everything was secure with my harness, to which one worker deadpanned "I hope so."  My plan was to jump calmly while holding my arms in triumph over my head.   I took a few steps, leaped....and my plan fell through.  I flapped my wings like a chicken and screamed like a baby.  My body was overwhelmed with a sinking-stomach feeling ten times stronger than that of a roller coaster.   It was a much scarier experience than skydiving.  Adrenaline junkies say it is the best feeling in the world. Bungee jumping is a New Zealand experience that should not be missed. 

The Ledge, Queenstown

Just the Basics

• Location: Queenstown, South Island, New Zealand
• Cost: $180NZ ($138US)
  
• Website for AJ Hackett Bungy: http://www.bungy.co.nz/
• Advice: Purchase a video of your leap to show to your friends! 

Tandem Skydiving New Zealand

Skydiving over Lake Taupo

I am scared of heights.  So why did I go skydiving over Lake Taupo, New Zealand?  When in Rome...  

Kiwi's love adventure, whether it be surfing, bungy jumping, skydiving, skiing, or countless of other activities geared toward thrill-seekers.  I was talked into skydiving by some fellow backpackers who convinced me to skydive through two reasons: 1) It's not as scary as it seems 2) Lake Taupo is one of the cheapest places to skydive in New Zealand.  Sold. 

What to Expect

I chose to skydive through Freefall, based upon traveler recommendations.  Because it was winter, I actually had to wait a few days until skies were clear enough to skydive, which is not uncommon.  Once the skies cleared, Freefall picked me up at my accommodation at no charge.  At the airport, I paid, signed my life away, and put on a red flight suite, I expected to an intensive training session of "Skydiving 101."  Instead of rigorous training, I felt a tap on the shoulder and heard "hi, my name is Dan.  Let's get on the plane."  Training session over.

Unsuccessfully trying to not look scared

The worst part of the whole experience for me was the plane ride.  Over a dozen skydivers, tandem-masters, and photographers were packed into a tiny plane, straddling to benches arranged parallel to each other in the plane.  The plane was loud, crowded, and shaky.  I felt like I was in a pop can being thrown through the air.  As earth drifted farther and farther away, fear nearly overtook my reason.  I tried to think of an excuse that would allow me to not be thrown out of the plane, but couldn't come up with any that wouldn't immediately identify me as a chicken.  I was stuck.  Just before the fuselage door was opened, Dan again tapped me on the shoulder with some last words of advise as he strapped me to his body.  "Cross your arms when we jump.  Uncross them when I tap you again."

The scariest moment of my life occurred just before we jumped. Hanging 12,000 feet in the air completely at the mercy of another individual is a strange feeling.  I shut my eyes, we tumbled in the air, I opened my eyes and....it was unbelievable.  Though the wind resistance was tremendous, I felt like I was floating.  I expected the stomach-dropping feeling of a roller coaster, but it never appeared.  I knew this once a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so I paid extra to have a photographer document the whole experience. 

After 45 seconds of free fall, Dan pulled the chute, creating the only queasy feeling of the whole skydiving experience.  It took us another ten minutes or so land on  solid ground, with great views of Lake Taupo and mountains along the way.  Dan took care of all the details of the landing (I just had to lift my feet). Once back in the hanger, we received our photos and CDs. I drove back to Taupo feeling I had, still feeling like I was on Cloud 9.

Just the Basics

• Location: 7km South of Taupo 
• Cost
• 12,000ft0--45 sec. freefall--$249NZ (approx. $190US)
• 15,000ft--60 sec. freefall--$339NZ (approx. $261US)
• Add CD/DVD Package $179NZ (approx. $138US
• Website: http://www.freefall.net.nz/
• Tips: Dress warmly, especially in the winter.  Also, pay to have your jump video photographed.  If you are like me, you may never go again!

Thanks for a great experience tandem-man Dan!

Treble Cone Resort New Zealand

Slopes of Treble Cone New Zealand

By exploring New Zealand during the American summer, I took part in snow sports.  Compared to my native Minnesota, New Zealand is actually quite temperate, without the extreme temperature swings of Minnesota Winters.  However, the mountains of both the North and South Island of New Zealand offer several ski resorts.  I chose to ski Treble Cone , on the South Island near Wanaka because it offered the most challenging terrain. 

What to Expect

Treble Cone has a reputation as New Zealand's best resort for experienced skiers and snowboarders.  Treble Cone is the training site for the Canadian Ski Team from July to September.  Though there are a few easier slopes, I would not recommend Treble Cone for people new to skiing or snowboarding.

The size of the resort does not compare to the those of the Rocky Mountains.  There are only two chair lifts at Treble Cone.  However, the terrain is just as challenging and snow conditions are excellent.  I spent three days at Treble Cone, and honestly, could have spent a week without getting board.   The longest run is 3km.  Experts have the option of hiking to the summit to add to the adventure. 

Just the Basics 

• Cost: $99NZ for a one-day pass, $365NZ for a three-day pass.  There are discounts for senior, youth, and student passes. 
• Location: 35 minute drive from Wanaka, New Zealand 
• Rentals:$47NZ--save money by renting from a local ski store
• Ski Season: Late June to early October
• Advice: Book accommodation early-Wanaka fills up quickly during the ski season
• Website: http://www.treblecone.com/

Take the time to stay and explore Wanaka if you ski Treble Cone

Conquering the Moeraki Boulders

 

I was looking back through some of my old travel photos and found a video of me and a friend conquering the Moeraki, Boulders in New Zealand.  The unusual boulders were created by waves eroding the rocks.  Some of the spherical boulders have a diameter of over six feet!  If you want to see the boulders, they are located at Koekohe Beach on the Eastern Coast of New Zealand's South Island.  They are easily accessible from the Highway 1, and there is no cost to park or view the boulders.

Moeraki Boulders

The Moeraki Boulders are not reason alone to go to New Zealand.  They are, however, just a small wonder among endless wonders that New Zealand has to offer.  

Hiking and Swimming the Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier New Zealand

One of my favorite (there are many) experiences in New Zealand was hiking the Franz Josef Glacier, on the the country's South Island. It is one of the few glaciers in the world that is advancing, rather than receding.  Visitors can explore the glacier through hiking, ice climbing, or even helicopter tours.  I chose a Franz Josef guided hiking tour to get an up-close-and-personal view of the glacier.

What to Expect
The company that led the tour I took was called Franz Josef Glacier Guides.  They offer both either a half or full day hike.  I elected for the full day tour based upon a tip from a previous hiker who said the half day tour didn't reach what he described as "the good stuff."

Upon arriving the morning of the hike, we were all given boots, waterproof jacket and over-pants, hats and mittens, and crampons.  After a brief introductory meeting, we loaded a bus and headed for the glacier.  I was surprised to discover that once the bus had dropped us off, we had over a kilometer to hike over rocky ground to just to get to the base of the glacier. The glacier is worth the effort.  

Swimming the Franz Josef Glacier

Once at the base of glacier, guides assisted us up a series of ladders until you reach the surface of the glacier.  Walking on the glacier was like being on another planet.  Living in Minnesota, I am accustomed to ice and snow, but this was different.  Never before had I been able to walk through ice tunnels, over deep crevices, and up mini ice mountains.  All through the hike, the Franz Josef guides explained the science and history behind the glacier, which enriched the whole experience. 

Near the end of the day, the guides offered us the option of swimming in a glacier pool.  We were told the plunge is a rite of passage for new glacier guides, and we had a new guide in our group.  I turned the polar plunge down, considering the hour-plus hike we still had back to the bus.  Some young British backpackers joined the guide in testing the icy waters...which helped me snap this great photo!

Just the Basics

• Cost:   Half Day-$123NZ, Full-Day $180NZ
• Website:  http://www.franzjosefglacier.com/
• Advice: Pack a lunch to eat on the hike, you'll need it.  Pack a swimsuit if you are feeling really adventurous!