Today was one of the days we were looking forward to most this trip. We went this route on the south island, just so we could go to the Frans Josef glacier with the hopes of getting to hike on the glacier.…

After a bit of sleeping in to make up for some lost sleep hours, we had a leisurely departure from the hotel.…

We took a morning hike to Hokitika Gorge, known for its cool blue water and suspension bridges.

Merry Christmas! We started the morning with our Santa stockings, then ate a muffin and yogurt breakfast before getting all packed up for the next adventure.…

Christmas Eve was a drive day and our chance to start the move from the northeast side of the south island to the west side.…

Yesterday was about the sea, today was about the land. This peninsula walk can be an out-and-back along the cliff edge, or if the tide is low you can walk back along the base of the cliffs.…

The sea was a bit rough, but the dusky dolphins were plentiful. This was the kids’ first time in a wet suit and the first time swimming with dolphins for all of us.…

Rob and I had forgotten how much our boys love hotel breakfast buffets. They were bouncing with anticipation of a free hotel breakfast.…

It was time to leave our peaceful chalet and hit the road for Wellington. Fortunately it was a smooth 4 hour drive with one stop in Bulls to rotate drivers and set up lunch for eating while driving.…

Tongariro Alpine Crossing fast facts: 19.4km (12.1 miles), total ascent 2454 ft, total descent 3636ft with the peak at 6129 above sea level, point to point hike and rated “hard in” AllTrails.…