Jon Algie 
As a kid growing up in Timaru, I have vague memories of visiting Peel Forest. It’s a big tract of forest in the otherwise farming intensive plains of South Canterbury. You’ll see plenty of trees, some waterfalls and there’s even some mountains to climb (Little Mount Peel, Big Mount Peel). I ventured back there for … Read more
Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park (Milford Sound) and is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist towns. It’s situated on the shores of Lake Te Anau, and across the lake sits a series of caves. Those caves are home to some unique creatures — glowworms! Note: We paid our own way … Read more
High above Central Otago, where only 4WDs dare to tread, sits a big rock next to what looks like a desolate moon base. Welcome to the Old Man Range, where you’ll drive to over 1600 metres above sea level and explore a barren, lifeless, and beautiful landscape the likes of which are rare in New … Read more
Manapouri is a tiny town near Te Anau, and the fact it isn’t on the main road means a lot of people miss it. It’s a cool place to see, mostly because of Frasers Beach. We reckon it’s one of the best lake beaches in New Zealand — keep reading and see if you feel … Read more
The drive between Queenstown and Te Anau is a popular one, with scores of tour buses, cars and vans desperate to get to Milford Sound and the other wonders of Fiordland National Park. What can you see on the drive between Queenstown and Te Anau? Keep reading to find out! This post contains affiliate links. … Read more
Kingston, around 45 minutes from Queenstown on the road to Te Anau, is a small town with an excellent beach. Kingston Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand and stone, with an impressive mountain backdrop thrown in for good measure. Where Is Kingston Beach? Kingston Beach is located at the eastern edge of Lake Wakatipu … Read more
Glenorchy is a small town around 45 minutes’ drive from Queenstown. It’s not on the way to anywhere in particular, but the scenic drive along the shores of Lake Wakatipu makes it a must-do when spending a few days in Queenstown. There are also some excellent short walks in and around Glenorchy, and the Routeburn … Read more
The third and final day of the Routeburn Track features some nice views of the Hollyford Valley as well as an impressive waterfall and finishes with a rewarding side-trip up to Key Summit. Key Summit is also an excellent day walk option – keep reading for the all information you’ll need above this section of … Read more
The Routeburn Track, typically walked in 3 days, is one of the best ways to see the spectacular mountain scenery of New Zealand’s South Island. Day 2 of the Routeburn Track takes you above the Routeburn Valley, over Harris Saddle and then down to Lake Mackenzie. Keep reading to find out more, and if you … Read more
The three-four hour walk from Routeburn Shelter to Routeburn Falls Hut is a relaxing way to start a multiday hike. You’ll follow a pristine river (The Routeburn) through the forest and then head above the valley for some awesome views. It’s also a perfect day walk route if you’re short one time. Keep reading for … Read more