Oceania
New Zealand
Journey to Middle-earth - where geothermal wonders meet dramatic mountains, and adventure awaits around every corner.
Best Time to Visit
Dec - Feb (Summer)
Our Trip
22-Day Road Trip
Known For
LOTR, Adventure, Nature
Islands
North & South
Featured Experience
Our New Zealand Adventure
22-Day Road Trip
Both Islands
Journey to the Middle-earth
My husband and I took a 22-day road trip across New Zealand in December 2022. We explored both islands, stayed at unique accommodations, and experienced the magic of the landscapes that brought Middle-earth to life.
Plan Your Trip
Day to Day Itinerary
Our full day-by-day New Zealand itinerary - stops, routes, and tips - is documented below. Read it right here or open it in Google Docs for the full experience.
Stories & Guides
New Zealand Travel Stories
From volcanic landscapes to hobbit holes, explore our adventures across the Land of the Long White Cloud.
New Zealand: Journey to the Middle-earth
It's a dangerous business, going out your door - our 22-day road trip across New Zealand.
Trip to Hobbiton: An Unexpected Journey
It was a hobbit-hole, and that means comfort - visiting the magical Shire movie set.
Walking Through Mordor: Tongariro National Park
Experience the volcanic landscapes that inspired the fires of Mount Doom.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Exploring the World's Youngest Geothermal Wonderland with steaming craters.
Dunedin: The Wildlife Capital of New Zealand
The Unexpected Wildlife Paradise - penguins, albatross, and sea lions.
My Nevis Swing Adventure
A Leap of Faith - the world's biggest swing in Queenstown.
A Day in Wellington
Exploring New Zealand's charming capital - cafes, culture, and coastal walks.