NEW ZEALAND

Our first stop was in magnificent New Zealand with its breathtaking scenery, indifferent weather and friendly locals. Our blogspot has been a project in the making for some time now, finally we have a few chapters published with many more to come - Enjoy!

Following are some of our favourite pics of NZ.

View fom the top of Avalanche Peak. Our first hike and probably the toughest single day of hiking in NZ.

James practising for the circus in the main square in Christchurch. So far no offers!!!

Swimming amongst wild dolphins in Kaikoura was definitely one of the highlights of NZ.





Partying with our Kiwi Experience pals.

Franz Joseph Glacier... bbrrrr

Marlborough Sound, Queen Charlotte track

The start of our most challenging hike with fellow Aussie and top bloke Ian. He showed the Gucci hikers how it should be done.

Special thanks to Ian for kindly lending us his camera in our time of need.












Summer in NZ's alps. Snow man courtesy of minor blizzard. We were forced to take refuge in this emergency shelter before the tough and freezing trek down the mountain to our first camp spot along track.



But with spectacular views like this...it was well worth it!

Greenstone track.
When our tour bus failed to pick us up we were forced to hitchike to Milford Sound. All was forgiven when the cost of the cruise was refunded. The the free sandwiches we received was a welcome bonus (a nice change from the tuna and rice we had been eating along the hike).

The recent heavy rain provided us with dozens of spectacular waterfalls all throughout the sound when typically there are only 3 permanent falls.

Chief James receiving a traditional, friendly welcome in Rotarua.





Sunset over Lake Taupo.















Mt Ngauruhoe, or more famously known as Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.



We take the plunge and dive out of a plane at 12,000 feet. What a rush. We both wanted to do it again as soon as we reached the ground.