NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand, known as Aotearoa in Māori, is an island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, comprising two main islands, the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) and the South Island (Te Waipounamu), along with over 700 smaller islands. The country is famed for its stunning natural landscapes, which range from active volcanoes and geothermal areas to lush rainforests, towering mountains, and pristine beaches. New Zealand is also rich in biodiversity, with unique flora and fauna, including the iconic kiwi bird, which is a national symbol.

The country has a population of approximately 5 million people, with Māori, the indigenous Polynesian people, making up around 17% of the population. The Māori culture is deeply intertwined with the land, and their legends and traditions offer a profound connection to New Zealand’s landscapes. English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language are the official languages.

Our adventure was nothing short of extraordinary. We delved deep into New Zealand’s natural wonders, from the fiery peaks of active volcanoes to the pristine, wild beaches and high sand dunes. We marvelled at staggering mountain ranges, immense glaciers, and narrow, mist-shrouded fiords. We wandered through incredibly dense green forests, always in the company of the friendliest (and occasionally naughtiest) birds in the world. Along the way, we immersed ourselves in the rich tapestry of Māori myths and culture, deepening our connection to this unique land.

The experience was beyond anything I could have imagined. I will forever treasure the epic views, the serene camping spots, and the nights spent in mountain huts. The vibrant sunrises and sunsets, the roar of the fiercest winds and wild seas, and the cosy days hunkered down in Jan, waiting for storms to pass—all these moments have etched themselves into my memory. New Zealand is a land like no other, and this journey will always hold a special place in my heart.