Posted by Dianne Nicolini on February 3, 2010
And New Zealand is even more “under” than Australia! Among other things, our trip was one big geography lesson for me. Below the equator and across the International Dateline for the first time in my life and we had a great time. This was really my husband Jim’s dream vacation. He figures he only has so many years left when he can still do crazy things like canyoning, sledging, street luging, white water rafting, black water rafting, exciting jet boat trips up and down beautiful rivers and swimming with the dolphins. Believe it or not, we did all these things. We did draw the line at bungy-jumping.
Here are my Top 3 NZ highlights: the people, the scenery, the food. The Kiwis were friendly, kind and helpful to a person. The landscape, especially in the South Island, was stunning and the food surprised us. Breakfasts were generous and scrumptious at the fun and luxurious B & B’s where we stayed and we ate at amazing restaurants everywhere we went. Plenty of lamb of course, venison and great beef but also delicious vegetables and fruits (it is summer down there right now).
Here are a few photos of our adventures:
Rippon Winery on Lake Wanaka
Down the 7 meter waterfall in the Kaituna River
The exquisite Milford Sound
My crazy husband "canyoning"
UR right Dianne, your husband is CRAZY!
Comment by Charlie Greene — February 4, 2010 @ 12:16 pm
Diane,
I totally agree with you about the wonders of New Zealand–the people, landscape, and food. So glad you enjoyed it, and are talking about your enjoyment.
Comment by Steve Jung — February 4, 2010 @ 2:28 pm
Yep, we’re jealous! Can’t wait to follow in your footsteps, or paddles, one day
Comment by Mark & Krista — February 9, 2010 @ 9:52 pm
Di, you and Dr. Jim really had some great adventures. My trip in 1989 to NZ was memorable but without the risky activities you both did. Yes there was lots of sheep in both islands. Driving on the left hand side of the road with a car having the steering wheel on the right in the car was challenging. Got use to it, but it had to be NOW after I drove out of the car rental lot at the airport. Being there in April (our vernal period in America)it was autumn there with fall colors all about. So, you must have been enjoying summer in January, right?
I’m happy you are seeing the world. You’re having fun doing it too. Perc
Comment by Percy Mueda — February 10, 2010 @ 8:11 pm
Diane,
Thanks for sharing your photos and comments about your NZ trip. Very endearing. You are fortunate and blessed to have a youthful husband who drags you to the ends of the earth to “play.”
I am the same type of guy. Crazy for outdoor adventures—if not too extreme. But alas, I’ve no charming woman to join me. (Have any friends you can set me up with?)
Comment by Bradley — March 3, 2010 @ 3:52 pm
Love New Zealand…you guys are quite adventurous and daring…Jim, even if you think young the body may not !!! I agree, do it NOW .
Comment by James Lim — March 20, 2010 @ 2:48 pm