Moving to New Zealand on a working holiday visa back in 2018, I just wanted to experience something different to what I was used to back home. I initially settled in the North Island and spent the summer exploring the sleepy coastal regions and the geothermal centre. I couldn’t believe how laid back and friendly life as a Kiwi was and soon became infatuated with the country, its food and the incredible culture that is engrained throughout.
As things got colder, the natural next step was to head down for the ski season in the South Island. Coming from the rolling green hills of the north, the vast mountainous landscapes of the South Island blew me away and the changes you see in the country are so vast, you could well be in another continent.
New Zealand is such a special and unique place to me, being based back in London now, I feel so privileged to be able to share my experiences and to help others put together their once in a lifetime trip to the ‘land of the long white cloud.’
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Q&A with Daniel
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
I was on a coach heading to Milford Sound from Queenstown. Pick-up was at 7am, so I spent most of the journey dozing off. Once the clouds had cleared a bit and the sun was shining through, our guide drove us through the Homer tunnel and out towards Milford Sound. As we emerged the scene that met us felt as if we had been transported thousands of years back in time. I was half-expecting to see a pterodactyl swoop down in front of us.
Where would you love to travel next?
Next on my list is the southern states of USA. I’m (secretly) a huge fan of country music and a serious foodie so it seems the perfect destination. Catch me line dancing all night in Nashville wearing my new cowboy boots very soon.
Your best piece of travel advice?
My top travel tip concerns New Zealand naturally. Be sure to allow some extra time when driving between locations. Aside from the obvious reasons like traffic and road closures, you’ll find that there are endless spots to pull over and take pictures of stunning views, and often plenty of short walks through the bush that will land you at a natural pool, or hot spring on the way. It’s part of the reason why New Zealand is one of the best countries to self-drive.
