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Queenstown is New Zealand's Adventure Capital |
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by Naia Kelly and Daniel Logtenberg
Driving into Queenstown we can feel our blood pressures rising. Maybe it's the advertisements for all of the activities? Or perhaps it is the incredible energy of the natural beauty of the area permeating through to our souls, somehow resonating a wakeup call deep within, down where the kid in us lives? One may never know but there is something special about New Zealand, and Queenstown in particular. Summertime fills the streets with all ages. The ambiance of the town is that of a mountain village. Quaint, yet has all of the modern day conveniences you could want, including an organic food store. Not only do they have extra long days, oftentimes adventure seeking tourists will be found frolicking between the amazing glacier fed river and the rugged, mountainous peaks. It is there that we see the occasional dingy, the odd parachute, sometimes occupied, sometimes not. Almost always there was someone talking about doing something "on the edge", as it should be. NZ is known for it's extreme sports. Queenstown is an amazing place to get the thrill of your life and come out virtually unscathed if you follow every safety precaution, and to take your chances with Lady Luck if you don't.
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Southlands of The South Island of New Zealand |
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Southland boasts some of the most distinctive landscapes int he country, ranging from its stunning scenery of rugged fiords, towering rain forests, fertile farmlands and sweeping coastlines to a wealth of flora and fauna. Southland's diversity and ever changing backdrops make for many photo opportunities. The province is home to the internationally reknowned Milford Sound - the most visited of New Zealand's fiords. It is also home to the Couthern Scenic Route. the 440 km route starts in either Te Anau or Dunedin. It is a sensational scenic drive with plenty of short walks and stop offs along the way. Give yourself plenty of time for that road. During your visit to the southland you may see kiwis, penguins, sea lions, seals and birds. Rocky coves, waterfalls, sandy beaches, native bush and high mountains will be the backdrop. There are tons of tracks to walk or hike over all these terrains. The sounds are World Heritage Sites so be sure to include those in your visit. Fishing is really, really good here. I have never seen fish jump for bait so quickly. |
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Golden Bay, Nelson Region, New Zealand |
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Golden Bay was voted as having the best drinking water in New Zealand. It probably has to do with it's realtively remote location, low industry, careful farming practises and an abundace of wild spaces. The area is bordered by two large national parks as well as the ocean and another mountain range. It has it's own ecosystem. The area can sustain a population much larger then it has currently. During the summer months the population grows as this area is a great camping, hiking and overall outdoor activity place. There are many interesting springs, waterfalls, beaches, outdoor cafe's and restaurants that need exploring. You will find the locals very friendly and more then willing to fill you in on a couple of cool spots to check out. |
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NgAng Art Studio & Gallery in Golden Bay |
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NgAng Art Studio & Gallery - Golden Bay Golden Bay is home to many talented artists. Many of them immigrating from around the globe to this spot on the north coast of the South Island. New Zealand had the right vibe and Golden Bay was the right part of that vibe. NgAng was drawn to here from Australia and is a prolific artist. His art is worked into every aspect of daily life in the bay. You can see his touch throughout the area from a simple staircase leading down to a small beach to a bike pathway and garden on a busy street. NgAng finds some way to brighten everyone's day with a bit of inspiration and hope. His art studio and gallery located just off the main highway has an abundance of great art. Many of the pieces in the gallery are so fraught with detail that you have to keep coming back to it. NgAng is also featured in a few other galleries across New Zealand so ask to see one. He offers orginal artwork, giclee, offset print and gift cards as well. The studio also features the photographic work of Lethea Erz. Lethea's classic Golden Bay Photographic Calendars are a must have in remembering your trip or convincing others to go. The Art Studio & Gallery is located 2 km from central Takaka. Follow the main highway north, make a right infront of the high school and then an imediate left. Follow that road for another mile and you will see a large mural on a shed. Slow down for it. It's a community project spearheaded by NgAng. Follow the path to the studio. |
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Northern Toll Road |
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The Northern Toll Road, North of Auckland
 This is probably not an important point in your journey across the planet but this was something that was experienced. It reminds one of many of the 4 lane highways throughout much the US and Canada. It's only 7.5 km long and is pretty straight so speed limits are much higher then the free route. |
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Te Anau |
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Te Anau is a small tourist town that services the Fiordlands in South Western New Zealand. Located at the foothills of the South Island's tall mountains. A couple hours trip to Queenstown, Milford and Doubtful Sounds. |
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