21/06/2023
🌳🏞️🚜There is something so divine about the pristine countryside that calls to you.
You’ve heard the saying, “When in Rome, do as Romans do.” That’s the spirit you fall into when you move to New Zealand. Being outdoors—hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing—is a huge part of the culture you can’t help but get involved in. 🎣🚵♀️
I consider myself a complete suburban girl. I grew up with malls, shopping centers, and subdivisions as a part of my life. However, New Zealand seemed resistant to adhering to the “rule of capitalism,” and instead of giant shopping malls, had quaint town centers with locally-owned shops and cafes.
🌱It was indeed a different vibe.🌱
I still remember waking up one weekend and being completely taken over by the desire to HIKE. (I had never hiked anywhere before I moved to New Zealand.) I had some gear, but I didn’t know WHY? I checked a map, drove an hour away to a small area in the country, and started my 2-hour solo hike. (I still wasn’t sure WHY).
I was greeted by the soft call of birds 🐦, lush temperate rainforest 🌲, and a beautiful waterfall at the end. The entire time I was unplugged and relaxed. No distractions, no music, no traffic. Just a muddy trail and my thoughts. After returning to my car, I realized I had been bitten by another bug. This time I knew I had to go and see more. 😌
New Zealand’s Department of Conservation has created several Great Walks nationwide. These hikes (NOT walks) vary in intensity and will range from 3-5 days in length. They are complete with rustic cabins along the way that provide a brief respite and a place to throw your sleeping bag. 🏕️
So for the first time in my LIFE, I decided to go on a 4-day, grueling hike with my hubby through the wilds of the South Island. We made it through ALIVE, sore and completely amazed by the scenery we had experienced. 💙
If you ever get the chance to make it to New Zealand, PLEASE do yourself a favor and try to do at least PART of a Great Walk. Believe me, you will be forever changed. 🇳🇿🤗
