Jon Algie 
If you’ve grown up in New Zealand then you’ve probably heard that the Nelson / Tasman / Golden Bay area is full of amazing beaches. Some of the best beaches in New Zealand in fact. That’s definitely true, but what about the beaches in Motueka itself? Are they any good, or should you just head … Read more
One of the coolest things about exploring Stewart Island is that there are heaps of interesting walks that are accessible from the main village. You can start walking in pretty much any direction and you’ll soon see something pretty. One of those walks takes you along along a winding coastal road and then along the … Read more
If you’re after a multiday adventure in New Zealand you’ve probably already considered doing a Great Walk. The Routeburn Track is one of the best, and is the perfect place to start if you’re new to multiday treks. We hiked the Routeburn Track in three days earlier this year and it was an amazing experience … Read more
There are heaps of fun things to do in Central Otago, from laid-back vineyard visits to exciting 4WD trips, cute small towns, farmers markets, scenic walks and much more. We’ve spent a lot of time in Central Otago over the last few years – we’re pretty sure we can help make your trip there as … Read more
If you’re looking for an easy, short(ish) walk on Stewart Island that requires no boats or taxi transfers, the Horseshoe Point Track could be for you. You’ll walk from Oban, past roadside beaches and viewpoints to the start of the track, which is half the fun. Oban to the Start of the Track The walk … Read more
If you’ve browsed this site at all over the last few years you’ll already know that New Zealand is home to heaps of scenic drives, and the South Island has most of the best ones. The drive through the Buller Gorge is one of the prettiest, and it’s quite different to the others. Think emerald … Read more
If you’re considering a trip to Stewart Island you have two main ways to get there. You can either catch the ferry, which takes an hour and takes you across the notoriously choppy Foveaux Straight, or opt for a flight. What’s a flight to Stewart Island like? It’s amazing (and very short). Keep reading for … Read more
A trip to Ulva Island is a cornerstone of many a Stewart Island holiday. This tiny island is a predator-free sanctuary for a wide-range of native New Zealand birds and is also home to some great beaches. It’s a short boat ride from Golden Bay and you’ll likely spend a few hours there – keep … Read more
When you think of Punakaiki you immediately think of the Pancake Rocks, one of the most iconic tourist spots on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. The Pancake Rocks are reason enough to visit, but there are heaps of other things to do in Punakaiki, including some nice beaches, a stunning river walk … Read more
We wanted to do the Rakiura Track on our recent trip to Stewart Island. It was winter though, and I’d read reports of military-grade bed bugs destroying many a recent hut experience. Instead, we opted for a Rakiura Track day walk, and our research led us to the section between Port William and Lee Bay … Read more