In 1974 I came to New Zealand (from Sydney, Australia) on a hitch-hiking holiday. I loved it so much I never went home - these days I need a pretty big truck to move all the stuff that in mine, but I loved living with a pack on my back and exploring New Zealand from that perspective. Tami Zemel did the same thing last year, and loved it so much that when she returned home … [Read more...]
Nelson and Abel Tasman
Our goal is to spend some time in the Abel Tasman National Park - but to do this, you need to go through Nelson, and why not enjoy it on the way! Nelson as a food bowl - in autumn the orchards dripping with apples, homegardens dripping with fruit, we were soon ladened down and are offered far more than we can carry, so sadly had to say no. … [Read more...]
What is a bach? What is Bookabach
A Bach is New Zealand for a simple holiday home - in the South island they are also called 'Cribs'. A Bach is a New Zealand term for a simple holiday cottage, often by the beach. Bookabach enables owners to rent their bach when they are not there, and those of us who do not own baches can book one. Mostly very simple, provide your own food and linen and leave it as you find … [Read more...]
Awaroa – Abel Tasman National Park
We had stayed overnight at Rowan Cottage in Motueka just one of the great Womens Travel Accommodation network. Today we are heading for Awaroa, a small settlement in the middle of the Abel Tasman National Park, where we have rented a bach (in NZ = cottage) for a few days. First stop the Aqua taxi - you can drive and then walk, but it is a LONG way, and most people move about … [Read more...]
Three Amazing Girls Weekend Destinations in New Zealand
I love hanging out with the husband and kidlets. Love love love it. Live for it even. BUT sometimes I just need a few moments in time where I can sit back and shirk life’s responsibilities. Enter the girls’ weekend. Sure, I might spend most of the weekend talking about the ones I love most but knowing someone else is at home doing the hard yards almost makes me feel like I … [Read more...]
Rowan Cottage – stay in Motueka (Nelson)
Accommodation in Motueka for everyone, and with a special welcome for women travelers at Rowan cottage Rowan Cottage has been a part of the women's travel accommodation network for years, and it was wonderful after emailing for many years, to finally get to stay there and to finally meet Renee and Trish and their small dog. Motueka is the gateway to the Abel Tasman National … [Read more...]
Unfinished Business – Trout Fishing on the Tongariro River
Guest post from AWOL - Adventurous Women on the Loose When we signed up for our trout fishing adventure on the Tongariro River we had no idea that the most adventuresome part would be getting there! To reach our fishing spot we had to cross a fast flowing section of the river complete with slimy rocks and a strong waist high current. Despite using the proper 'linked arms' … [Read more...]
Away with the birds on Waiheke Island
Guest post by Mary Somervell of Auckland Based Inside Out Adventures - offering some great trips for women The ferry docks at Matiatia wharf on Waiheke Island and a courtesy van is there to meet us. Gavin takes us on a mini tour of the island with a photo stop at Palm Beach before we arrive at the Trig Hill base. What a superb location - the second highest point on the … [Read more...]
Adventures for Women in New Zealand – South and North Island
Women's Adventures NZ is for women of all ages and stages in life. Remember it's not your age, it's your attitude that counts! So come on, what are you waiting for....take the plunge and join us on our next adventure! That is the voice of founder Debbie Goldingham, adventurer, grandmother, personal trainer and all round go for it type of girl. Debbie loves adventures, and … [Read more...]
New Zealand opens the Door to Marriage Equality
New Zealand has taken the plunge and introduced Marriage Equality - as of this week Gay and Lesbian couples became equal under New Zealand's marriage law. 31 same sex couples tied the knot on the day, including two Australian men who were among the first gay couples to marry in New Zealand. The two Australians were sponsored by Tourism New Zealand. Tourism New Zealand is … [Read more...]