I think I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: the nice thing about Wellington New Zealand is you can be in a somewhat-bustling city one minute and on a beautiful hiking path the next. While I’ve written about quite a few of them already, (check out my favorite here,) I recently walked yet another one. The Paekakariki Escarpment Track is a bit newer than the others but still offers gorgeous New Zealand bush and scenery.
A view of Kapiti Island from the Paekakariki Escarpment Track
The track runs high above State Highway 1 along the Kapiti Coast between Paekakariki in the North and Pukerua Bay in the South. It takes about 3 hours to complete and offers unparalleled views of the ocean and Kapiti Island. Interestingly, it also goes through a residential area and through a closed railway station on its southern end.
The track isn’t a long one, but it isn’t easy. It’s a lot of ups and downs and zig-zagging through the bush along the side of the mountains. A lot of it is exposed, so be prepared for those infamous Wellington winds, and strong sunshine.
A view of the ocean, coast line from the Paekakariki Escarpment Track
The Paekakariki Escarpment Track also earns its nickname “The Stairway to Heaven.” There are stairs almost through the entire walk, and at one point there are around 200 in a row. The good news? If you take the trail from North to South you can go down the stairway instead of up them. Just note that you will still be going upstairs at many points, even in this direction, there just won’t be 200 in a row.
A particular highlight of the walk for me was the two suspension bridges between some of the rolling hills. Not only are they fun to walk across, they are also a great spot for selfies.
One of the suspension bridges along the track
Getting there:
We went by train, but you can also drive to the area if you have a car. Just know if you do this you will either have to do the track in both directions or plan to take a train or uber back to your car at the end.
If you go by train: purchase a day pass for $14. This is only a few dollars more than the one-way ticket and will save you money.
Before you go:
There is no water along the track, so make sure to pack an extra bottle. You’ll need it
The track is exposed much of the way, so be prepared for possibly strong sun, wind or cold, depending on the day.
At one point there is no track, just a ledge, and a rope. It’s fairly safe, but if you’re afraid of heights it could be a bit daunting.
I would recommend bringing snacks and planning to take a break about halfway through. There are several benches along the way and at least one picnic table.
Part of the path that goes through a residential area
When you think wacky roadside attractions, chances are you think of the United States. Due to its vastness and size, the USA is a country made for road trips, and therefore, roadside attractions like the Giant Ball of Twine. You wouldn’t be wrong for thinking it was the place to see this kind of stuff, because well, that was my belief as well until I saw the giant carrot.
Sure, I had noticed some other weird things on my drive to Okahune, but it was the carrot and adjacent playground that really did it for me. You see, it’s not just bizarre, it is also unexpected: the giant carrot is the first man-made thing you see after miles and miles of pure, untouched landscape, so it sort of stands out.
After seeing this strange and hilarious statue, I started taking note of the other strange things I saw on the road here in New Zealand. So, here’s a list of funky and “giant” roadside attractions I’ve seen on the North Island, all thanks to Okahune’s giant carrot.
Note: I have only personally seen the first 6 of these attractions. The rest were compiled using internet research and gathering photos from other travelers.
1. Giant Carrot – Okahune
Okahune claims its giant carrot is the world’s largest modelCarrot Adventure Park features mascots of the vegetable variety
The giant carrot of Okahune has been greeting visitors to Okahune on the North Island since 1984. Originally used as a prop in a commercial, the town purchased the fiberglass prop as a way to honor farmers in the area who grow most of the country’s carrot crop.
But if you’re going to stop and look at the carrot, you’re going to want to park and check out what’s behind it: the Carrot Adventure Park. In addition to the slides and swings, this playground features a number of fun crop-inspired characters with ridiculous names to match, such as “Muncho Manchester” the carrot.
2. Giant Gumboot – Taihape
Taihape doesn’t make gumboots but considers itself to be the “Gumboot Capital of the World”I mimicked some kids in the area and climbed on the boot. There are no signs around discouraging people from doing this
Although it’s corrugated iron is painted in bright colors, the Gumboot of Taihape is a bit easier to miss than Okahune’s carrot. Not only is it smaller, but it is also not in as obvious a location, especially when driving North. Still, it has just as strange a story behind it: The town erected the statue after it became known as the “Gumboot Capital of the World.” The thing is, the town doesn’t make or really have anything to do with gumboots, it got the moniker thanks to a fictional gumboot-wearing character named Fred Dagg who came from Taihape.
3. Giant Bull – Bulls
When I was in Bulls, this giant statue was decorated for ChristmasThe town’s ador-a-bull and punny sign
To be fair, there is way more bull to see in Bulls than just the giant one, even though the town doesn’t get its name from the animal. Instead, Bulls was named after James Bull, an English settler who owned and operated the town’s first general store. Still, in recent years the town has taken to celebrating the animal that shares its name by erecting giant bull statues all around town, including a big wooden one that stands in its center.
While the bull on wheels itself is impressive, what really got me was the sign of bull puns next to it. The sign points you towards some of the town’s sights, including the Bulls Library, which is described as”read-a-bull,” The Mothered Goose Cafe, which is apparently “select-a-bull,” and the information center which is, unsurprisingly, “inform-a-bull.”
4. Giant De Molen Windmill – Foxton
Foxton, New Zealand is home to a Dutch windmillThe windmill offers visitors a chance to buy Dutch treats and souvenirs because nothing says I visited New Zealand like clogs?The windmill is fully functional and built to specifications directly from the Netherlands
This is just so out of place and random that my first thought when I went inside the windmill was “only in New Zealand!” The fully-operational windmill opened in 2003 and is a full-scale replica of the traditional windmills found in the Netherlands. (It even grounds flour you can buy!) The ground floor is a shop that sells goods imported from the Netherlands, but you can also see the working parts of the windmill for a small donation.
5. Cuba Street Bucket Fountain
Some people say Elijah Wood peed in this fountain
While I saw the other 4 on a single road trip out of Wellington, this strange and splashy statue resides in the city I currently call home. It’s a pretty average looking bucket fountain, and honestly, I don’t understand why this silly statue is on so many people’s “must see” lists. Not only is it strange, the fountain is also broken and splashes unsuspecting visitors. Local lore has it the fountain does this because no one remembered what order the buckets were supposed to go in after being taken apart for maintenance.
6. Big Dog and Sheep – Tirau
Tirau’s giant sheep dog building houses its I-Site center. Photo Courtesy: Saskia Boerboom
While I have actually seen these unique buildings from the car, I didn’t think to get out and take a photo at the time.
You can’t miss these massive, corrugated iron buildings as you drive by, and if you have time you might as well pull over, take a picture and go inside them! The sheep building houses a wool and craft shop while the sheep-herding dog’s insides are home to the town’s information center.
Tirau is also home to a giant ram, and a bunch of other corrugated iron sculptures including a cow, a shepherd, and a praying mantis.
7. Giant L&P Bottle – Paeroa
One of the two giant L&P bottles you can find in Paeora. (Photo Courtesy: Emma Jeffreys)
A soft drink that is “World Famous in New Zealand,” L&P is a Kiwi staple in the summertime.
Known for its wacky advertising, it doesn’t come as a surprise that the town where L&P get’s its name has not one, but two giant bottles paying tribute to it! The original and potentially more “famous” L&P bottle features the brand’s original design and is located in Ohinemuri Park. But if you’d like some L&P to go with your L&P visit, there is also one outside an L&P Cafe.
L&P stands for “Lemon and Paeroa,” which comes from the drinks original recipe: carbonated water from the town of Paeroa mixed with lemon. (It tastes a bit lemony and peppery.)
8. Catlin’s Teapot Land – Owaka
This garden of teapots sits alongside the main road in Wanaka. (Photo Courtesy: Bethany Gordan)
The teapot’s featured in the garden come in all shapes, sizes, and colors (Photo courtesy: Bethany Gordan)
Having never been to the South Island myself, this attraction came as a complete surprise to me when a fellow traveler shared it in a group, so I figured it was worth featuring.
Teapot Land has a weird origin story. The man who owns it, Graham Renwick, tells Stuff.co.nz, that one day he found a teapot in his garden and popped it on his fence. He then added a few more from his own collection, and the rest is history. He now he has over 1300 teapots in his garden from all over New Zealand and the world.
Amongst the beautiful scenery of central Otago, there stands a fence adorned with thousands of bras.
Yes, bras.
The fence allegedly began in 1999, when four bras were found hanging from a fence on Cardrona Valley Road. Locals weren’t too keen on it, but the collection of bras steadily grew as more and more travelers added their own undergarments.
If you love lighthouses, New Zealand is the place to be. Honestly, I think I’ve walked and hiked to more lighthouses in the Wellington area in the past 7 months then I did my entire life in the states.
That being said, when it comes to my favorite lighthouse here, that would easily be the one at Castlepoint.
Castle Point’s main, but not only attraction
The small town of Castlepoint is about a 2 and a half hour drive outside Wellington in the Wairarapa Region. It’s pretty rural and home to just over 1,600 people. But what it lacks in residents it makes up for in pure beauty.
The obvious attraction at the Castlepoint scenic reserve is the lighthouse, but that’s not all there is to see. Because this is New Zealand, there is also a trail for you to climb, in addition to a number of sandy beaches.
Upon arrival, you’re going to want to climb to the lighthouse first thing, but I would advise you save that for last. That’s because the walk to the lighthouse is quite easy and quick, so you won’t need a lot of energy to get it done. However, you’ll need a bit more to finish and enjoy the Deliverance Cove track, so I suggest you do that first. (And trust me, I don’t suggest hikes unless they are worth it!)
The trek is only about 45 minutes long and is mostly flat. It starts at the parking lot and takes you around the area’s picturesque lagoon. The actual trek ends on the beach, but if you are daring, fit and confident, there is a hidden (and harder) trek that offers beautiful views from above.
The view from Castle Rock of Deliverance CoveA look back at the path to the top
I am generally a rule-follower, and had I been to Castlepoint alone I probably would’ve ended up on the beach. (Also, because I dream to spend every day of my life on the sand.) However, on the day I explored Castlepoint, I went with my friend Rose, who is definitely more on the adventurous side. (Also she doesn’t like sand.) Rose saw a few people climbing up to the top of Castle Rock instead of down, so we followed.
To be clear: while there were a lot of other people headed up the rock with us, this climb is not an official track. There is no path that is cared for or maintained by anyone, and it is steep. At times, it feels like you are going up the rock at a 90-degree angle. And if that wasn’t tricky enough, there are no trees or shelter to shield you from the area’s wind, so you really have to find secure places to land your feet, and occasionally take a seat to make sure you are grounded.
But like any great hike here in New Zealand, the views from the top are spectacular. You can see so much from the top of Castle Rock: from the beach at Deliverance Cove, to the tiny town of Castlepoint, to the lighthouse, to the stunning blues and turquoise of the Pacific Ocean, it is breathtaking. So far, I think it has to be my favorite vantage point I have climbed to in New Zealand.
Deliverance Cove
But what goes up, must come down. The hike to Deliverance Cove is one way, meaning you have to return on the same path. This isn’t an issue on the official track, as it is big enough for pedestrians in both directions, however, that is not the case for the unofficial climb up and down the rock. This means you have to find creative ways around people going in the other direction, while also fighting gravity and wind. It wasn’t incredibly difficult, but it is a hazard to be aware of. Luckily for me, it was something that was encountered on the way down.
After returning to the parking lot, its a quick walk over the beach to the lighthouse trek. The walk itself starts actually starts along a rock in the water, which means the installed concrete path is sometimes wet from the tide. From there, its a bunch of simple wooden boardwalks over the water and apparently a reef, to the lighthouse.
This area is apparently known for marine mammals and birds, although I have to say we didn’t see anything other than seagulls on our visit. Still, the scenery and jagged, rocky coast are stunning. It reminded me a little of forts on the sea, like Castillo de San Marcos in St Augustine, Florida. It’s a feeling Captain James Cook also shared, having named the place “Castlepoint” because it reminded him of the battlements of a castle.
The castle-like rocks that hold the lighthouse
I could’ve spent the day there, but it was quite windy and neither of us had brought our bathing suits or fishing rods, so we headed home shortly after the trip to the lighthouse. On the way back we stopped at Tinui Bar and Cafe. Now, for any tourists visiting the area this is a must because this place sells the best, and least-expensive Manuka Honey of anywhere I’ve been in this country. For about $14 NZD ($9.50 USD,) you can get a jar of this stuff, that is not only tasty but is also known worldwide for its medicinal properties. This is why Manuka Honey usually runs upwards $30 to $50 NZD a jar, and why this is such an amazing find.
In all, if you ever find yourself in the Wellington Region on a summer’s day, make sure you make the drive to Castlepoint. It is the best day trip any beach or lighthouse lover can take. And hey, there’s a hike too.
The lighthouse, with Deliverance Cove and Castle Point in the background
I don’t know when I started making soundtracks for segments of my life. I think it was probably at some point in university, a time when music was not only easily accessible but also central to many of my friendships.
It started small, with me naming periods of my life. These often coincided with semesters or friendships. For instance, I distinctly remember naming the summer of my sophomore year “Two Guys, a Girl, and a Diner.” At the time, I thought this was a clever play on that oft-forgotten show “2 Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place,” and was chosen because I spent many nights that summer at various diners with my two best friends at that point in my life who happened to be two guys. I am pretty sure they both thought I was silly, but the name has helped cement the memories of that summer firmly in my mind, and for that I am thankful.
This naming of periods in my life eventually morphed into giving them songs. I think the first of these was “Don’t Stop Believing” (how clever) for my first semester after transferring to Temple University in Philadelphia. I’m sure you can guess the inspiration for this one: booze. (This was also around the time I turned 21.) However, I also I think part of me enjoyed the hopeful message of the song.
This need to name times of my life after songs eventually grew into creating full blown soundtracks for them, particularly for romantic relationships. This is something I sort of forgot I did until recently when I purged all my “boyfriend boxes” as part of my move to New Zealand. While I realize this is kind of a ridiculously sentimental thing, I have to tell you, making them was cathartic. It was a nice way to package up my emotions and stop listening to those songs, knowing I could revisit those feelings later. (Which I did, by the way, after rediscovering them a few months ago. It was… interesting, as they stirred up long-forgotten emotions of regret, love, and joy.)
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Until now, these sorts of soundtracks and playlists have been purely personal mementos; none of my former boyfriends know I made these albums. (Unless they’re reading this now, and in that case, hi guys.) But as I was walking home tonight, listening to the songs that have become part of my journey here in New Zealand, I thought: what better way to offer you insight into what I’m going through then sharing that music with you? Call me immature, call me an emo kid, call me whatever you want but I really think the music someone is listening to at any moment can open a door to their heart quicker than words can.
So, here it is. My “Welcome to New Zealand” soundtrack. It’s sad, hopeful, and very folky. There are only a few artists on it, but hey, some of them are kiwis.
One of my favorite things about Wellington and New Zealand, in general, is how much walking people do here. And because it’s part of the culture, that means there are a lot of specifically walking paths to get around. They are so prevalent, Google maps use them in directions. This means whenever I go somewhere new on foot, I am almost always treated to new landscapes and views (as well as muddy sneakers.) It’s amazing how much beauty there is here in Wellington, just outside the city limits.
Below is a series of pictures I’ve taken over the past 3 months in Wellington, all taken during unexpected journeys.
Shelly Bay
On my way to Shelly Bay, I took a path down a mountain which offered me this stunning view.For a moment, I felt like I was back in the tropics.
Kelburn
I was on my way to a friend’s house for brunch when I stumpled upon this quaint bridge.This is a popular type of path in more urban spots of New Zealand. In some cases, the mail man has to take them to get to the entrance of people’s houses!This feels like the entrance to a secret garden but really its just the entrance to one of the walking paths in Kelburn.
The edge of Mt. Victoria and Oriental Bay
On my way to the Mt. VIctoria trail, I spotted this stunning view of Oriental Bay
Oruati Reserve in Point Dorset
After a yummy brunch at Scorch-O-Rama, my friends and I took a brief walk through a gorgeous reserve. It is easy to take photos when the sun does what you want it to!I couldn’t resist sharing this photo of a dog running into my photo. <3 Puppies and that view!
Stuart Park in Titahi Bay
While exploring my friend’s new work ‘hood, we stumbled upon this beautiful view at Stuart Park in Titahi Bay
So first, I want to apologize for my growing absences from this blog. It is not intentional, but there is a lot of reasons behind it, and I want to bring you up to speed.
I’d like to say by absence is just an unfortunate reality of having a full-time job for the foreseeable future. Yes, almost immediately after my last post I got offered a long-term contract with the company I am temping for. Funny how that worked. (Heck, I even am getting paid time off!) This is all great news as I have one less thing to stress about, but it also means I am much busier than I was when I first arrived in New Zealand, and that means I have less time to explore, and therefore a lot less to write about. (I do want to mention, however, I am still exploring in bite sized amounts and have a lot of fun adventures lined up in the future, so stay tuned!)
But as I said, this isn’t the only reason I’ve disappeared. I’ve also disappeared because I am struggling with the cold. (Yes, it’s the end of summer for most of you, but in the Southern Hemisphere it is very much still winter.) This is making me very homesick for warmer temperatures, and particularly Florida, to the point I was making plans to return there as early next month. My bags were all but packed, and I didn’t write because this reality was a hard one for me to admit, but one I think you should know. As excited as I am to have this time in New Zealand, it is also not an easy transition, especially now that life is becoming a bit more routine.
The homesickness is more than just the temperature. It’s hard seeing my friends in the States go through big life changes, both positive ones, and negative ones, and not feel like I can be there for them. Sure, the internet makes this a bit easier these days, but I am still 16 hours in the future, so that means when most people I love in the U.S. are free to chat with me, I am either asleep or at work.
I am also missing my old life and frankly, having a career. I miss having a car and a place to call my own. I miss having a freaking closet, central heat, and even a video game console. These are all things I would’ve said didn’t mean much to me before I left but once I got here, I find myself daydreaming about these simple and strange things.
Don’t get me wrong, I would not trade my time here in New Zealand for anything. Even though it hasn’t been all positive, it has been great. Wellington is as amazing as everyone says it is, and many of the friendships I’ve made here are ones I will take with me for life. I’ve even bought hiking boots because, well, it’s an activity I’ve actually come to enjoy and one that’s hard to avoid here in New Zealand. (Honestly, even some of the walking paths here are basically mini-hikes.) But it doesn’t make missing my friends and family any easier, and it doesn’t mean I prefer hiking to Disney World because let’s be honest, Star Wars Land is going to be epic.
So where do I go from here? I’m not entirely sure, and I guess that’s always been part of the adventure. I am making strides, however, and learning to embrace my new surroundings in both old and new ways. To combat the chilly winter, I have started going to the gym again, something I did regularly in the States. I’m also meditating and saying “yes,” to opportunities to experience new things both in and outside the city. I’m also trying to find things to make the tiny space I live in feel more like a home because living out of a suitcase has been really difficult.
To end on a positive note, I plan to make a photo post soon of all the “mini adventures” I’ve taken throughout the area. Also, know that I do plan to get back to updating this now that I am in a better space, and ready to get things back on-track instead of just “existing.” I mean, I did buy hiking boots.
So I finally started working here in New Zealand. It is a temp job, but its money and that means I can do things like leave Wellington and explore this beautiful country. And being a white wine fan, my first place trip was, of course, to Marlborough wine country.
The original vineyard at Hunters Winery, planted in the 1970’s
The region isn’t that far from Wellington, but it is on the South Island (or what’s known to the locals as the “main land,”) so that means you either have to get on a plane or boat. Both modes of transportation are adventures in their own right, and thankfully my friend who booked the trip had us take a boat there, and a plane back.
You have two ferry options to cross the Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton: either the Interislander or the Bluebridge ferry. On this sailing, we took the Interislander, which is the original, although I am told there are pros and cons to both.
One of the stunning views from the ferry of the South Island
If you luck out like us, the ferry ride will provide you with stunning views of both islands and crisp blue waters. There’s really no words to describe it, and for around $50 NZD ($37.30 USD) it is a real bargain. (However, if you go on a stormy day it may not be as smooth, as some riders found out a few days later.)
Speechless
In case you don’t know, New Zealand is a country of micro-climates. It means a quick car trip could take you from a chilly, windy day in one place to a beautiful, still sunny place in another. And that’s really what happened to us. Unlike the blustery, chilly and gray Wellington I am currently calling home, the other side of the strait is beautiful and sunny. It is lush with palmettos, and once we arrived in Blenheim, I felt like I was in a beautiful small seaside town somewhere in South Carolina.
The main intersection in Blenheim, complete with a gazebo and clock tower
Blenheim may be tiny and quaint, but it is a lot of fun. And its hotels have heat so I felt like a real queen. (Mostly because it had insulation and heat in all rooms.) My friends and I got some lunch at a wonderful Indian Restaurant called Mango in town. And then, after a quick nap we out to enjoy a quick wine tasting before heading to a local pub to watch the rugby test between the New Zealand All Blacks and the British & Irish Lions. The game was a close one, and really fun to watch until it ended in a tie! Maybe it is because I’m American, but watching match up between two great teams that only happen more than a decade apart end without a winner is a bit of a bummer.
The real fun began the next day when we hopped on the Highlight Wine Tour van to check out a few wineries in the region. The Marlborough area, known for its Sauvignon Blancs because of its warm days and cool nights, is beautiful and vast. Just take a ride down the main road and you’ll see wineries lining both sides, some of which are full of sheep and lambs to helping to keep the grass trimmed. (Unfortunately, we were driving past these wineries so I didn’t get any pictures.)
A look at the vineyards from the restaurant at Wairau River Winery
We visited several wineries on our trip, which ended up being private since we went off season. (Most people visit Marlborough in the summer months.) It was, unfortunately, a bit rainy so we didn’t get to stroll the vineyards like I would like to, but I still enjoyed myself. This was my first wine tour anywhere, and the neat thing about Highlight is the tour is tailored to who is on the bus, so the wineries we were planning on visiting changed once or twice throughout the day. For example, we originally were going to visit vineyards known for their rieslings (my favorite variety, don’t judge,) but as the day went on we were really keen on drinking reds, so instead, we visited a place specializing in Pinot Noirs. It was a really wonderful experience, and our tour guide was a wonderful and cheeky woman named Colleen who picked up on our sense of humor quite quickly. We loved her so much we gave her a hug at the end of the trip.
The tiny plane that took us home
But the adventure didn’t end there. Remember I said the flight was equally adventurous as the ferry? That’s because we flew in a Cessna! While I have flown in small planes before, I had never flown on one commercially and enjoyed this unique experience. Because it is was so tiny, you could watch the pilots fly the plane, and even hear all of the conversations being had between other passengers. (Additionally, you could wake everyone up who was sleeping by just checking your phone!) There were also more traditional flight amenities, including a magazine in for each passenger to read. (And oddly enough, I had more leg-space on that 25-minute flight over the Cook Strait than I ever had on more standard commercial airplanes.) I’ll admit the flight was a bit bumpy going into “Windy Welly” but that wouldn’t deter me from doing it again. The company that flies the planes, SoundsAir, flies from multiple destinations around New Zealand and its something I would suggest you look into should you ever decide to visit.
A photo of me on the ferry by my friend, Ashley. Here’s to more adventures!
So here’s an update you weren’t expecting: I went on an actual hike, like on purpose. (Or was it more of a long walk? This definition is sort of up to debate amongst my friends.) Either way, I took time out a few days ago to see nature and guys, I actually enjoyed it.
One of the views that made the dirty shoes worth the walk
Here’s how it happened: after a long night out (you wouldn’t believe if I told you what time I went to bed,) a friend of mine messaged me the next afternoon and asked if I wanted to go and see live, wild seals. Not really thinking about my dehydration or really anything other than the fact I would get to see seals I immediately said yes. I didn’t think to ask how long it would be, or what kind of shoes to wear. (However, since I only own things that fit in a suitcase, I wouldn’t have had too many choices for the latter.) That being said, I am going to assume my enthusiasm and adrenaline got me through the next few hours, because looking back, I’m not really sure how I managed to make it the 2 and a half-hour trek otherwise. But regardless, it was totally worth it.
The Te Kopahou Reserve seems like another world, but it is a short drive out of Wellington city center; it took us about 10 minutes to get there. When you arrive at the reserve’s massive parking lot, you’re met with accessible restrooms, water fountains and other amenities so you can make sure you’re prepared before taking the trek. (The only thing it doesn’t have is food, so I suggest you eat whatever you need to get you through the walk before you go.)
This picture screams inspirational quote to me
Once you pass through the gates, be prepared for some breathtaking scenery. The reserve is only open to pedestrians and bikers; if you see a car on the path it must belong to one of the areas few residents, and they are only allowed in a small portion of the beach. (My entire trip we saw just one vehicle.) Most of the trek is also sand, so take that into account when wearing shoes. (Don’t be me and wear chucks!)
The easy walk is 100% worth it and offers some of the most stunning views I have seen so far in New Zealand. It was also the first time in my life I have had the privilege of seeing black sand (which if you haven’t seen is a beautiful site in itself!) The black beaches, jutting rocks and spectacular mountains are really amazing to see. (And this is all before you get to the seals!)
The seal in the background is just showing off
When we finally got to the seal colony about an hour and fifteen minutes from the entrance, I was blown away. We didn’t just see one seal, no these creatures littered just about every rock in the areas “red rock” formation. Because they are conserving energy, it is easy to walk up to them and take a picture. (One did bark at me, but quickly went back to his nap.) I was also really excited to find one laying right along the path, but this excitement quickly subsided after the poor animal threw up. We also came across at least 2 dead seal carcasses, so the path isn’t 100% serene, but it is natural and in my opinion, worth every step.
Another highlight of the walk is the “Devil’s Gate” formation at the top of a mountain near the seal colony. It is the perfect spot to grab an instagram photo to share with your friends at you enter the other side of Middle Earth, although I promise it is too beautiful to be Mordor. (If you are going to take a photo though, I would recommend walking through it and turning around for the best shot. Otherwise, you’ll have a warning sign in your image and also miss the chance to capture the sea and the mountains in the background.)
This is the side not to use (I edited out the warning sign because I mean, just look at it!)My friend Anca took a photo of me on the “right” side
I should also mention this trek also introduced me to Paua shells, a beautiful type of shell unique to New Zealand. They feature iridescent blue, green and purples on their insides. Chances are you’ve heard of them or seen something similar, but that doesn’t make them any less beautiful.
Another inspirational quote photo featuring paua shells
I would like to go back to Te Kopahou Reserve and see the sunset sometime, as the little glimpse we caught of the sun falling behind the clouds was quite beautiful. However, because it is New Zealand there are no lights along the path, you’ll have to be prepared with your own flashlight or torch to get you home. I would also recommend taking the trek with friends or a loved one because it is too beautiful to keep to yourself.
I guess I should invest in some hiking boots.
Speechless
Quick Overview:
Price: Free
Hours of Operation: 24 hours. Take a flashlight if you plan to be out after dark
Good for: Solo travelers, hikers, adventurists, nature-lovers, families with kids old enough to walk, couples, seeing sunrise/sunset, animal lovers
I have conflicting feelings on zoos: On one hand, I recognize that they are necessary for conservation and education and without either its hard to preserve and protect the animals in their natural environment. But while this is true, I think we can all agree that the animals would likely be happier roaming freely and it is for this reason I rarely frequent zoos.
However, having never been to a zoo outside of the states, I was quite curious as to what one might be like elsewhere in the world and recently took the opportunity to visit the Wellington Zoo during its “Open Weekend” event. Essentially, for two days at the end of May the zoo and another popular attraction, Zealandia, allow entry for a $2 NZD donation, or about $1.40 USD. The donations go directly to the Wellington Zoo Conservation Fund, which actively helps save animals in the wild, which is something I can get behind.
The outside of the Wellington Zoo in the suburb of Newtown
Not only was I pleasantly surprised with how large the zoo was, but it was also a zoo experience unlike any other I’ve had. Many of the animals were within arms reach and free to roam the exhibits, which is something that doesn’t happen in traditional zoos in the states.
For example, the exhibit dedicated to animals from Australia is one open path where the wallabies, kangaroos, and emu roam freely. I could’ve touched the animals if I wanted to, but didn’t for obvious reasons.
I imagine this emu saying “touch me, I dare you” to me and all of the nearby children
The red pandas and kaka exhibits were similarly open as well.
One of the 3 Kakas who flew above my head during my visit
In addition to the open exhibits, I also saw several animals get fed during the day, which is pretty standard when it comes to zoos, but not something I ever experienced before. And while watching the otters eat was adorable, I can’t say the same for the lions, as I could hear them crush and devour the bones while eating the whole chicken and rack of ribs. However, it was nice to see the big cat so close.
The only picture I got of the lion where you can’t see him devouring meat
But the real highlight of the trip for me, of course, was seeing a kiwi bird. Unfortunately, since the birds are nocturnal and in a dark exhibit, I was unable to get a picture of the bird to share. However, I am thankful the area was dark because otherwise I likely wouldn’t have gotten to see a kiwi, and honestly, what trip to New Zealand is complete without such an experience?
The sun bear posed for me to take a picture
Quick Overview:
Price: Adults: $23 NZD, Children ages 3-14: $11 NZD, Under 3: Free
Hours of Operation: 9:30am-5pm daily
Good for: Solo travelers, families with kids, photographers, anyone who wants to see a kiwi bird
Oh yes, they also have sheep (for the record this is the first one I’ve seen since arriving in New Zealand)
I didn’t move abroad so I could “catch ’em all,” but I would be lying if I didn’t at least consider the benefit being in a new country would have on my Pokedex.
Sadly, it has done nothing for my ‘dex. In fact, I caught more unusual Pokemon while pet-sitting at a friend’s in Florida. (Thanks, Steph!)
My most recent Pokemon catches after 10 days in New Zealand
Here’s the deal: Because Wellington is on the water, that means there is a lot of water Pokemon to be found. However, this was true when I lived in West Palm Beach, Florida as well, so essentially, I am getting the same Pokemon I got there, MINUS the regionals. (And in case you’re wondering, New Zealand doesn’t have any regionals. You can only get Kangaskan in Australia.) Guys, I’m really sick of all the Psyduck.
The most common Pokemon on my daily walk into town
On a positive note, I have been getting more 10k eggs here, so that may count for something. However, my 2k eggs so far have just about all been Goldeen and Oddish.
I did search for better catches on a brief trip to Auckland, but my luck wasn’t any better.
Also, Team Instinct actually represents here?
Bottom line: New Zealand is good for a lot of things, but Pokemon isn’t one of them.
But hey, you can catch Ekans here, even though there are no snakes in the country…
