I can imagine some of you don’t have enough time when visiting Wanaka. I know the feeling; there is so much to see, and never enough time. Well, if you don’t have time for a big walk, then go for a short one like Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain. It takes less long and will already give a good taste of the beautiful views in Wanaka.

It took me a few times to visit Wanaka (and tick some other hikes off my list) before I hiked Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain. When some friends visited me I saw the time right to hike up this little beauty! They had already conquered Roys Peak and Roys Glacier and we were feeling a bit lazy – so Diamond Lake it was!

Don’t think it’s easy peasy when you read ‘lazy’. What I mean is that this trail is easy and doesn’t take very long.

Diamond Lake Wanaka: lookouts galore

The advantage of going up Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain is that there are a few rewarding viewpoints, and you basically can turn back whenever you want (without being disappointed).

If you’re just looking for a stroll, do the Diamond Lake circuit, taking you around the little lake. The views are better from above though, so if you have time hike to Diamond Lake lookout, where you see the lake from above. It has a nice, round shape and often awards you with nice reflections. You don’t see Lake Wanaka yet. There is a platform to take a little rest and soak in the view.

Then it’s time for the next lookout: Lake Wanaka lookout. Follow the track to the right and about 20 minutes later you have a stunning view on Lake Wanaka and its surrounding peaks. There’s a bench to enjoy the view and have some lunch.

To the top: Rocky Mountain!

Some people only hike until the first or second viewpoint, but if you want some better views I recommend to keep going. Follow the trail up, along the mountain and before you know it you’ll be on the top of Rocky Mountain. How awesome is that name by the way!

Enjoy the magnificent views on Lake Wanaka, have a snack, take a rest and then you can start hiking down. This is a loop track, so you can explore a different trail on your way down.

Hiking details Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain

It’s a very clear and easy trail to follow. You can definitely take kids or older people up if they have a basic level of fitness. The great thing is that you get rewarded very quickly, with the multiple viewpoints along the trail. You can choose to hike to wherever you feel like. Although I still highly recommend going to the very top!

Follow the track from car park and climb steadily up. You can choose to do a circuit around the lake (which is 2,5km) or you can keep going up to the Diamond Lake lookout (about 1h return).

Follow the track up until you can either go left or right. To the right you have the Lake Wanaka lookout, while the left track will guide you to the summit of Rocky Mountain (775m and 3h return). It is a loop track that will guide you nicely down another way!

How to get to the start of Diamond Lake Wanaka hike?

This trail starts from the Diamond Lake Carpark on Mount Aspiring Road. It’s a 20 minutes drive from Wanaka. You first pass Glendhu Bay, then West Wanaka Road (on your right side) and the carpark shows up 1,5km after you have passed W Wanaka Road.

It’s a large carpark, so you should have no trouble parking your car.

Want to read more about Wanaka, its surroundings and more hikes in the area? Have a look at some articles here: Wanaka

Like it? Save it!

The post Diamond Lake Wanaka: easy hike for a calm day appeared first on The World is a Circus.

Have you ever wanted to walk on an active volcano? White Island might be the place for you! If you don’t mind going to New Zealand

A few weeks ago, my New Years Eve plans were messed up by the extreme cold in Canada. I was stuck in my Airbnb and couldn’t get to my location. Every year I try to do something different on the last day of the year.

In 2015 I found myself motorbiking the NZ South Island and in 2014 I had the weirdest, alcohol-less New Year’s Eve in the Maldives. This year it was clear that life doesn’t always the way you want it.

Luckily the year before was still fresh in my head, because I WALKED ON AN ACTIVE VOLCANO.

I spent the day on the volcano, in the Bay of Plenty in New Zealand. First I took the boat with White Island Tours out there, seeing lots of dolphins, and then I walked in the inner crater of White Island – while the steam was getting out!

I also tasted the volcano… don’t ask me why

Here’s the White Island video!

As you can see, it was a beautiful day out. For more information on the trip, read my detailed volcano blogpost HERE.

Have you walked on a volcano?

The post VIDEO: Walking On a Volcano – White Island NZ appeared first on The World is a Circus.

I’ve been dreaming of New Zealand since I was a young girl. I knew the scenery was stunning, but that was about it. After eventually living there for a few years, I can tell you: life in New Zealand is pretty damn great. Living in a country is the best way to experience how different it is from other countries. To my surprise there were quite a few differences between New Zealand and the rest of the world.

1. People are SUPER nice

You’ve probably heard this before, but Kiwis are beyond friendly. There are no words for it. People care about you, they want you to be ok, and are interested. I love that people are kind and polite. It is easy to smile to someone, but in the world of today many people like to mind their own business. In New Zealand I didn’t get this feeling.

When I go for a run, people just say hi, even cars passing by. Or there is a nice cashier, bus lady or even people on the street. In Belgium it was more everyone in his or her own world, and you don’t talk to or smile to strangers… I think we should change that!

2. Houses have no central heating

Winter is really cold in New Zealand. Not because of the temperatures, but because of the insulation. Most kiwi houses don’t have a central heating system or double glazed windows.

As a European I can’t imagine being cold inside my home. I’m used to escape the outside cold and to put the heating on inside. In New Zealand I was still cold inside our house, and I even saw the air of my breath. Of course we had a fireplace in the living room, and I ended up using a little, mobile heater in my room too – because it was just too unpleasant. Luckily more and more houses are now installing central heating too!

3. People walk barefoot

Yes, this is true! And I don’t just mean at the beach. I often see people walking barefoot in the supermarket, on the streets or even in restaurants. And these people are from all different background and ages. I once saw a sporty father walking into a restaurant with his three daughters, all with bare feet I love how relaxed kiwis are and don’t care.

4. People care less

This closely follows number 3. Most people don’t care. They do what they want and they feel good about it. A great example, besides walking barefoot, is: the onesie. A onesie is a one-piece garment. You could call it a jumpsuit, but it looks more like a pyjama (and often looks ridiculous). Now and then I see people walking around in onesies in supermarkets, on the streets or at parties.

5. Kiwis do not like roundabouts

I am being really nice with this one. I’ve heard many Christchurch residents say: people can’t drive. Which translates itself to dysfunctional roundabouts. I’ve seen drivers wait until the entire roundabout is empty, do dangerous moves, use the wrong indicator, or don’t use any. It has even come to the point that Christchurch City is changing roundabouts back in to traffic lights (not kidding).

6. There are more sheep than people in New Zealand

We all know New Zealand has a lot of nature, and with those wide fields comes a lot of farming. In those fields: lots of sheep! In spring it’s adorable to see all the little lambs bouncing around. Spring is by the way a great time to visit New Zealand!

Did you know that there are more sheep than people in New Zealand. At the moment there are 4.6 million people in New Zealand, and 27.6 million sheep. New Zealanders are outnumbered by their livestock population!

7. There are no dangerous animals

As someone who loves hiking and being outdoors, this is an important one. There are no snakes, bears, lions, wolfs, or other dangerous or deadly animals in New Zealand. There is a tiny exception, which is the Katipo Spider – but it’s very rare to encounter this one.

New Zealand is a land of birds, and all the mammals you find there have been introduced. Luckily the introduced species weren’t dangerous to people, still maintaining the safe image of New Zealand.

8. Kiwis hardly use cash

EFTPOS is embedded in daily life. It’s a bankcard, which you can use for debit or credit payments. It’s super easy and no need to fumble with coins. I know every country has their own bank and credit cards, but I was amazed by how many New Zealanders never or hardly use money.

Cash is seen less and less, and in my opinion this is the future. I’m impressed how New Zealand is very modern by already anticipating this.

9. You get free tap water in restaurants and cafes

I absolutely love New Zealand for this (and all other countries that do this). When tap water is potable in a country, it should be offered for free when going out for dinner or a coffee. It’s something so basic and important, and yet there are countries where this isn’t an option, or where you pay for tap water…

My home country Belgium for example is way behind in this field. Every time I visit a restaurant that doesn’t offer free tap water, I’m biting my tongue. I see people ordering unhealthy fizzy drinks, while if there’s free water, they might not order these crap drinks. The USA and Canada do great as well with free tap water. I wish every country would follow their lead!

10. Free public toilets almost everywhere

This is an important one for the ladies. In New Zealand you’ll find public toilets almost everywhere! You even have a realistic chance of finding free, public toilets in the smallest town. Perfect for when you’re on a road trip and can’t hold it anymore! On top of that, the toilets are very well maintained!

To me, travelling isn’t just about the scenery and activities, but also the differences. Sometimes you get challenged, and sometimes you discover new habits which are way better than yours!

Did I forget anything? Or is there a weird or interesting difference you’ve encountered travelling? 

Like it? Pin it!

The post 10 Differences Between New Zealand and the Rest of the World! appeared first on The World is a Circus.

Most tourists visit New Zealand in summer, which is December – January in the Southern Hemisphere. The temperatures are higher (which is nice), but you’ll have to deal with lots of people. Spring on the other hand is one of the best periods of the year to visit the country. So I wrote down a number of reasons why you should leave summer behind, and come a few months earlier to visit New Zealand in spring.

1. Less tourists

As I mentioned before, summer is New Zealand’s high season. Do you really want to fight for a spot at one of its famous locations? No! In spring you’ll get a chance to experience New Zealand as it really is: peaceful and quiet.

New Zealand welcomes more than three million visitors each year, so believe me: it can be really busy sometimes. High season usually starts early December, so book your trip in spring, which is in October or November, and you’ll have a way nicer experience.

2. Taste new wines

Spring is the time of the year to taste new wines. New Zealand is home to many vineyards, and who doesn’t love wine? For me experiencing a country also means indulging yourself in the local cuisine.

There are lots of wine regions in New Zealand, but Marlborough, Waipara, Central Otago and Hawke’s Bay are my favourite ones. Have a look here (link) if you want more information about the New Zealand wine regions. https://www.nzwine.com/en/our-regions

In November there is also the Food and Wine Festival in Hawkes Bay. Get ready for a belly full of yum food and delicious wines.

3. Little lambs

Even if you prefer to eat them, they still are adorable to see. In spring you will find little lambs all over New Zealand, and they are the cutest. Fields are filled with lambs, and it is a pleasure to see.

I actually used to eat lamb, but after seeing those little cuties jumping in the fields for a few years I stopped… My heart won from my appetite!

4. Cheaper accommodation

Accommodation will be a bit cheaper, as the masses of tourists still has to arrive. On another note, it will also be easier to find accommodation, as in summer it can be hard to find a last-minute spot in popular places like Mount Cook Village and Queenstown.

Have a look what’s available!

Booking.com

5. Lupins are in bloom

New Zealand in spring equals lupins. And here’s a secret. Lupins are a pest in New Zealand. The beautiful purple and pink flowers are a non-native, invasive species and are taking over the habitat of New Zealand’s wildlife.

They look pretty, but don’t belong in New Zealand’s high-country landscape. Photographers love them though (I’m guilty too), and take lots of pictures with the lupins.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LIESELOT (LIS) (@theworldisacircus)

Let’s make a deal. When you visit New Zealand in spring, and you take a picture of the lupins, pull a few out! Roots included, otherwise they’re not gone. This way you get your shot, but you’re also helping the country.

6. There is still snow

Snow on the mountains! Do I need to say more? The country is transforming from winter into summer, meaning you’ll still have some snow around. And we all know, mountains look way more impressive under a layer of snow. In summer most of the snow on the mountains will have disappeared.

And if you like skiing, you might be lucky. Sometimes there is a big dump of snow in spring, and the ski fields stay open until end September.

Average spring temperatures range from 16 to 19 degrees Celsius, but there are also plenty of warmer (and colder) days. Weather in New Zealand can change unexpectedly, so always bring enough layers of clothes with you.

And, tempted to go? Believe me, you won’t be disappointed visiting New Zealand in spring. I went for a two-month holiday to New Zealand and ended up staying 3,5years. So be careful

If you like some inspiration on what to visit during your trip, check out these beautiful places:

New Zealand From Above: Mount Cook

A Weekend in Franz Josef

Hike Roys Peak, Wanaka

PIN NOW, READ LATER

Which season do you prefer? Would you like to visit New Zealand in spring or are you more a summer person? Let me know!

The post 6 Reasons Why You Should Visit New Zealand in Spring appeared first on The World is a Circus.

Once you enter Fiordland National Park, you’ll notice dramatic scenery with high mountains and peaceful lakes. This Fiordland guide will get you set for an awesome time in this magical part of New Zealand!

Get lost in the Sounds

Fiordland National Park is home to the stunning fiords of Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound (and many more), with lots of options to explore.

The best way to discover this area is hiking the many walking tracks (Milford Track, Kepler Track, Routeburn Track), taking a cruise on the water or flying above the scenery, to really understand the vastness of this area.

What activities can I do in Fiordland?

Because Fiordland is so big, there is LOTS to do – which we love. From cruising on the water and enjoying a movie, to eating delicious food in Te Anau. There’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of activities!

Milford Sound cruise

This is an all time favourite of tourists visiting New Zealand. Don’t expect to be by yourself or to be only boat in the Sound. Having said that, it is a beautiful area, and worth visiting.

I joined the Mitre Peak Cruise, and the boat took me past big waterfalls all the way to the end of the Sound and the beginning of the Tasman Sea. Pretty cool! If you’re lucky you’ll also see some seals chilling on the rocks.

TIP: Have a walk around the shore at sunrise. You will be almost by yourself and will probably be treated on some beautiful reflections.

Doubtful Sound Cruise

From one cruise to another. As I said, Fiordland National Park has a lot to offer!

The Doubtful Sound cruise is less famous and less crowded, making it way more special. I toured along with family business Real Journeys. We were the only boat on the water that day and REALLY experienced the peacefulness and tranquillity of the Sound.

You stay about 4 hours on the calm water, but it is a day trip, as it takes some effort to get to the beginning of the cruise. Unlike Milford, there is no direct road access to Doubtful Sound. The only way to get there is by a 1h cruise across Lake Manapouri and a coach trip over Wilmot Pass.

Doubtful Sound is extremely vast (3x longer than Milford) and almost untouched by man. It’s also sometimes called the ‘Sound of Silence’, because – yes you guess it – it is so silent. See more pictures of my cruise on Doubtful Sound here: https://theworldisacircus.com/2017/08/doubtful-sound-a-photo-diary/

Scenic Flight

Flying above the scenery is one of my favourite activities. It’s a bit more expensive than the regular cruise or hike, but it’s so worth it. There are many options to see Fiordland National Park from above, but I hopped on a small scenic flight in Queenstown with Milford Sound Scenic Flights.

We flew all the way from Queenstown to Milford Sound, covering a big area with LOTS of mountains. I especially loved the little hidden lakes in the mountains; it looked out of this world.

Check out more pictures in this article about Milford From Above: https://theworldisacircus.com/2017/06/milford-sound-from-above/

Fiordland Cinema

I love the outdoors and landscape, but I’m also a huge movie fan. I can’t keep count of all the movies I’ve seen, and especially in cute little New Zealand cinemas.

The Fiordland Cinema in Te Anau definitely belongs on that list. It’s a little cinema, with only one room. Watching a movie after spending some time outside is the perfect end of the day! Buy some wine, beer or snacks at the counter and enjoy the movie.

We watched the locally filmed movie ‘Ata Whenua – Shadowland’, showing a mysterious and spectacular Fiordland National Park. It’s mostly filmed from a helicopter and gives tremendous views of Fiordland.

Glowworm caves

New Zealand is home to many glowworm caves. That’s dark caves with little lights all around you: the glowworms. Glowworms actually aren’t worms, but larvae. The little larvae use their light to lure insects into their fishing lines.

Not all glowworm caves are easily accessible, so Real Journeys welcome the public at the western shores of Lake Te Anau. The trip starts with a cruise from Te Anau. Then you reach the cave on the other shore and walk inside. After a little while you board a small boat and cruise through the cave. There is no artificial light, and once your eyes are adapted to the dark you see all the glowworms popping up.

Key Summit Walk

Next to the three great walks in the area, you also find many smaller ones, like Key Summit. It’s a half day walk, starting off the Milford Road.

The first part of the walk is on the Routeburn Track, one of the great walks. You hike about 1 hour and a half up to Key Summit, and will get great views. Take some lunch, enjoy the view and then you’re ready for the walk down! It’s a perfect walk if you don’t have a lot of time.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nico BABOT (@thekiwifrog)

You can find more information about the walk on Fiordland Tourism’s website:  Key Summit

Drive the road to Milford

The road to Milford Sound is one of the most famous one in New Zealand. It’s an activity on its own. Make sure you have enough time to make plenty of stops to take the camera out.

Don’t worry if it’s raining, there will be waterfalls all around you when you exit the famous Milford tunnel. Do be very careful if it’s icy. The road is sometimes closed, because the conditions are too dangerous to drive.

Red Cliff Café Restaurant

I got this tip from a local, and I did not regret checking it out!

Te Anau is an active town and has a lot of food options. One that I highly recommend and is super charming is The Red Cliff Cafe. It’s charm and uniqueness is already visible from outside. You’ll get fine food in a cosy atmosphere.

We had a delicious truffel ravioli entréé and salmon and beef as our main. We were having such a good time, so we also ordered a chocolate dessert. That was the only course that disappointed us, it was not very tasty. We didn’t care too much as the rest of the food was insanely good. So here is my tip: check out The Red Cliff Cafe, but don’t order a dessert

Lake Te Anau sunset

You haven’t experienced a weekend in Fiordland without enjoying a beautiful sunset. You can watch one in Milford Sound, or I also recommend Lake Te Anau. It’s the Largest lake in the South Island and nice to spend the evening. Take your camera, or a bottle of wine and take in the sunset.

How To Get To Fiordland?

Fiordland stretches out from the north of Milford Sound to the very southwest of New Zealand. The best way to access it is from Queenstown.

To get to Milford Sound you can either drive yourself (which I recommend) or take a bus. Milford Sound is 279km from Queenstown (a bit less than 4 hours) and 121km from Te Anau. When you leave from Queenstown, you follow the road to Te Anau, and then from Te Anau to Milford Sound.

If you drive from Christchurch, you first pass Queenstown, then Te Anau, and then you’re on the last stretch to Milford Sound.

The closest international airport is in Queenstown. You can then rent a car, or take a bus or day tour.

TIP: there is limited cellphone coverage on the road to Milford and there are no shops or petrol stations between Te Anau and Milford Sound. Make sure that you have all the food and fuel you need!

n

Where To Stay in Fiordland National Park?

There are many accommodation options in Fiordland. There is Milford Sound, which is very popular. Because it is small and there aren’t many options the price is a bit high. Te Anau is the closest city to Milford, and there you’ll find some accommodation which is better for your wallet. That being said, you can also find lovely places to stay in Manapouri or local farms!

Booking.com

Have a search, and find what suits you best!

Disclosure: some links might contain affiliate links. That means that by no extra cost of your own, you will be supporting this blog by buying something through these links. Thank you!

PIN NOW, READ LATER

Have you been to Fiordland National Park? What would you want to visit?

The post Weekend in Fiordland: What You Can’t Miss! appeared first on The World is a Circus.

Most tourists go to Milford Sound, because it is easier accessible than the other sounds, and it also looks stunning of course. But don’t pass Doubtful Sound, it is bigger than Milford and very different. You’ll feel humbled being there.

Milford Sound isn’t the only Sound worth visiting in New Zealand.

Unlike Milford, there is no direct road access to Doubtful Sound. The only way to get there is by a 1h cruise across Lake Manapouri and a coach trip over Wilmot Pass. Because it isn’t easy to go there on your own, I teamed up with the local and family-owned Real Journeys for a day trip.

The trip to the start of our Doubtful Sound cruise was already beautiful, but once we were on the big boat in the Sound I was just blown away. Doubtful Sound is extremely vast (3x longer than Milford) and almost untouched by man. It’s also sometimes called the ‘Sound of Silence’, because – yes you guess it – it is so silent.

The calm water was mesmerising. It was a cold and crisp day, but I just didn’t want to go inside. We spent three hours on the water in the Sound, but I could’ve stayed much longer. Real Journeys also offers overnight cruises, but only unfortunately for me, not in winter. Spending a night on the water would be a dream.

What a perfect day.

PIN NOW, READ LATER:

Disclosure: the day trip on Doubtful Sound was offered to me by Real Journeys. My opinions, stay as always my own. Since arriving in New Zealand, I’ve always wanted to visit Doubtful Sound, I’m happy I did now and that I can share this beautiful location with you. 

The post Doubtful Sound: a Photo Diary appeared first on The World is a Circus.

We jumped in the car and were ready for our girls’ weekend. The drive from Christchurch to Akaroa is absolutely gorgeous (see some tips below for the best route). It was a cloudy day, but the Banks Peninsula still looked stunning. I think it’s very hard to find ‘ugly’ scenery in New Zealand. Oh, we’re so spoiled.

France or New Zealand?

Akaroa is a small, historic village on the Banks Peninsula, only an hour and a half from Christchurch. There are about 650 inhabitants, and it’s mostly known for its French touch.

French explorers tried to colonise Akaroa in 1840, but arrived just a few days after the British. They still managed to leave a big influence though. Akaroa breathes a French atmosphere, with the colonial architecture, French street names, and a gas station that’s called ‘L’Essence’.

Akaroa is small, but let that not mislead you. There are lots of things to do. You can find a list of my favourite activities below!

Dolphins with Black cat cruises

The Akaroa waters are home to the rare Hector dolphins. They are the smallest dolphin species around and a delight to see. Dolphins have something playful and disarming, I just love watching them.

Black Cat Cruises is the place to be if you like to meet some dolphins (and believe me: you want to!). We signed up for a swim with the dolphins and went on the water. There was a bit of a swell that day, which tested our stomachs, and made the boat ride very bumpy.

I didn’t really mind. It’s nature in its glory, and it made adrenaline rush through my veins.

I saw dolphins swimming and some even put a show up for us.

We also saw a White Flippered penguin, aka the world’s smallest penguin, in the middle of the water, which was cute and funny in a weird way. If you want to see some penguins from up close I highly recommend doing a tour with Pohatu Penguins. They help the population grow and take care of wounded penguins.

In the end all the dolphins we encountered were feeding, so we couldn’t swim with them. It was still very cool to see them in their habitat, and if you don’t manage to swim with the dolphins, Black Cat Cruises pays a portion of your fee back.

Alpacal Love

Do I need say anything more? Doesn’t this picture say everything? Alpacas are cute and they’re just the best.

On Saturday afternoon we spent some time with the alpacas at Shamarra Alpacas. They have 150 alpacas, and we got to walk between them, feed them, and learned a lot about this beautiful animal.

I don’t want to know how many photos I took, but I can tell you this: many.

Did you know that they produce wool in 22 different colours? It’s the only animal in the world that produces this many colours. They clearly wear it well.

Not only will you enjoy spending time with alpacas, you get some superb views, as the farm lies up a hill.

Accommodation

You won’t have any problem finding nice accommodation in Akaroa. There are Holiday Houses, B&B’s and hotels.

We opted for the Akaroa Waterfront Motel, because it is right in town, and – yes you guess it – right at the water. Our little studio with double bed and 2 single beds was perfect for the three of us. We had a couch, kitchenette, table and balcony!

I loved that we could just walk to the water and to nearby cafes, but it was also nice to spent some time inside. With, as it should on any girls’ weekend, wine, cheese and crackers.

Book your stay here: Akaroa Waterfront Motels 

Giant’s House

Do you want to feel in a different world? Go to the Giant’s House. Your eyes will go wild, exploring all the impressive and huge sculptures.

The Giant’s House is up a little hill in Akaroa, and owned by Josie Martin. She’s the artist, and has made EVERYTHING herself, over the last 20 years. I think we can call that persistence, patience and talent.

There is so much to see. I could’ve spent all afternoon there. I recommend that you just take your time and wander around. You’d be surprised of what you’ll find.

FOOD

Food can’t be excluded in this guide to Akaroa. Exploring a new place makes one hungry. Luckily for us, there are some good options in this quirky town!

Sweet As

Sweet As café is as French as it can be. Lots of red colours around, freshly baked croissants, baguettes and sweet and savoury crepes.

Every time I visit Akaroa I make a stop at Sweet As, because their croissants and sweets transport me to France. 

Hilltop tavern

A must stop for the view! The location of the Hilltop Tavern is superb. The tables inside and outside give you a first class view on the Banks Peninsula.

I recommend stopping on your way to Akaroa, or on your way back to Christchurch. Take a coffee, wine or some yum food and enjoy the view! It almost looks like a painting!

Sweet and Savage

Looking for some energy? The doughnuts from Sweet ‘n Savage are the perfect sugar infusion. They almost look too delicious to eat, but we did it anyway (no regrets).

You can see and taste that they are made with love. Baker Rachel makes them just outside of Akaroa, and she brings a little food caravan into town in summer. If you want to try them in winter, then I recommend visiting the Christchurch Cafes Uncommon or Park Ranger. They sell her doughnuts too.

Wine

A great place for wine tasting is French Peak Wines. You can find the vineyard on the shore of the Akaroa Harbour.

They ‘re specialised in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, and I like all of them

The Brasserie

On Sunday morning we slowly woke up at The Brasserie, with a much needed coffee and some breakfast. I ate the eggs benedict, tasty and beautifully presented on my plate. I always appreciate it, when cafes do that little extra to present food nicely.

Waterfall Walk

The Banks Peninsula is home to many walks and longer hikes. One right in town is the Newton’s waterfall.

You drive up Aylmers Valley Road to the Misty Parks Reserve car park, or you can walk up the hill. I opted for option two, to stretch the legs a bit.

It’s only a 10-minute walk from the carpark to the waterfall. I didn’t expect much, but it turned out to be quite impressive, rainbow included!

Cinema fever

I’m a fan of little cute cinemas (as you can read here), and Akaroa hides one as well. The Akaroa Cinema is small, with only two small rooms available.

You can take a coffee or wine inside and enjoy a movie in peace.

Some extra tips…

• When driving to Akaroa, start at Dyers pass road, then take Main Road en Gebbies Pass road until you’re in Little River. From then you just follow the main road to Akaroa. This route gives you a beautiful view on the peninsula. It’s a small detour, but you’ll be able to get a better view of the Banks Peninsula.

• Near Akaroa you’ll find the scenic road: Summit Road. Take it on your way to Akaroa. It’s a little detour, but the views are the best. You get a great vantage point, and at one point you will see water on your left and right.

I hope after reading this girls’ guide to Akaroa that you don’t ignore this cute French town when you’re visiting Christchurch!

Disclosure: I received discounts and free activities for the dolphin tours, accommodation, alpaca tour, doughnuts and the Giant’s House. All opinions are, as always my own. Some links might contain affiliate links. That means that by no extra cost of your own, you will be supporting this blog by buying something through these links. Thank you!

The post A Girls’ Guide to Akaroa appeared first on The World is a Circus.

Practical details for Liverpool Hut Track

Most people who visit New Zealand only check out the big, popular huts, like Mueller Hut. They are beautiful too, but the small ones are so much more special. Liverpool Hut is lost in the mountains in Mt. Aspiring National Park at a height of 1100 meters. Here is some practical information to plan your Liverpool Hut trip.

How to get there?

Take the Wanaka – Mount Aspiring Road to Raspberry Creek carpark. It’s a 1 hour drive from Wanaka. Be aware that the last 33km of the road is unsealed.

Timing

The Department Of Conservation website say the hike takes between 5,30 and 6,30 hours one way. This of course depends on your fitness. We ended up walking about 5,5 hours.

7.45 – 9.45am: Raspberry Creek Car Park to Mount Aspiring Hut
10.10- 11.40: Mount Aspiring Hut to Pearl Flat
12-14: Pearl Flat – Liverpool Hut

Distance

Liverpool Track is 30km return. You hike back via the same track. Be careful when going down on the steep parts, as it can be slippery.

Elevation

Liverpool Hut is located at 1100m high, on the steep lower slop of Mount Barff. The first part of the hike through the valley is very flat. Once you reach the track junction at Pearl Flat the real climbing begins, with an elevation gain of 500m over only 1km.

If you don’t like steep and exposed tracks, then this hike is probably not for you. The end can be dangerous if it’s wet and you really have to be comfortable on your feet.

Liverpool Hut

The hut has 10 bunks and is serviced, which means that there are mattresses, water supply, a toilet and hand washing facilities. You pay 15$ per night to spend the night and you can’t book it in advance. Buy your receipt at the local Department of Conservation office (in Wanaka).

Also notice that backcountry hut passes can’t be used at Liverpool Hut.

What to take?

• Hut fee receipt (please pay, as they need every dollar they can get to keep the parks in the great shape they are)
• Sleeping bag
• Rain jacket (the weather is unpredictable, so be prepared)
• Warm clothes for in the hut
• Cooking utensils
• Food (take some extra food in case the weather changes and you’re stuck for an extra day)
• Camera (you won’t regret it!)
• Earplugs – for in the hut (you also won’t regret it!)

Weather

ALWAYS check the weather before hiking in New Zealand. The weather conditions can change quickly, and you don’t want to get stuck up in the outback with 100km/h winds or hail. Metvuw.co.nz is a great site to check the weather. You can also always pop your head in the local DOC-office and ask for the weather conditions there. Find more information and maps of the Liverpool Track on the DOC-website!

Read more details about Liverpool track below!

It was the beginning of April, and the weather wasn’t perfect. Rain was about to set in, but we decided to go for it anyway, because we were prepared and rain won’t kill you

Enjoy the flat Valley

We started walking early, at 7.45am. The first two hours of the hike were flat, through lots of farmland and cows. Be ready to step in some poo too.

At one point you’ll see Mount Aspiring Hut appear in the valley. This hut is quite popular with locals, to take the family and enjoy a weekend in nature. When we arrived, there were only a few hikers and a kind DOC ranger. If you squint your eyes you could already see Liverpool hut.

The other hikers were using the hut as a base. There are lots of hiking routes leaving from Mount Aspiring Hut, and they were doing a few after each other. They hadn’t done Liverpool Hut yet, but warned us about a steep and dangerous part at the end of the track. “People have died there”, they said.

I wasn’t really happy hearing that, especially because rain was on its way. We decided to go, and would return if it became too dangerous.

Steep up!

An hour later of walking through the valley we had some lunch and started the climb up the mountain. By that time the rain had arrived. We were soaking wet, and looking forward to a tea in the hut. Nico and I were getting a little worried about the steep slab, because rain makes everything very slippery.

We hiked two hours steep up, grabbing on to trees and branches. In many places you’re climbing 45°. You’ll get used to holding on to the trees and rocks. The first meters were hard, but once I got used to the track it was quite fun. I felt like a monkey. It took us two hours to hike one kilometre up – you can imagine how steep the climb was!

I kept walking and waiting for the scary bit to come, but it didn’t happen. Apparently we had already passed it. It was indeed a bit exposed, but nothing to be afraid of as long as you use your brain and your hands!

Note: If you’re afraid of heights and exposed parts: don’t do this hike! It can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. At one point you’re climbing steep on rocks without any trees around you, which can be slippery. 

Amazing views

Liverpool Hut has the best views! First of all, it is a beautiful hut, but the views are just through the roof. You see the valley stretched out in front of you and you have mountains facing you in every direction.

After a surprisingly warm night we woke up early in the morning. On a cue, at 7.30 am a group of kea’s landed on our roof and started making noise. Kea’s are the world’s only alpine parrot and very cheeky (and a bit naughty). They like to steal and break stuff, so be careful that you don’t leave anything laying around in their presence.

Ready to start walking? Are you going to do Liverpool Hut? Or have you already hiked it? What did you think? Let me know in the comments!

The post Everything You Need to Know to Hike to Liverpool Hut appeared first on The World is a Circus.

The best ways to discover Milford are hiking the many walking tracks, taking a cruise on the water or flying above it all, to really understand the vastness of this area. I did two of those in one! No, I didn’t take a flying boat. I did jump on a scenic flight from Queenstown to Milford, explored the fiord by boat, and flew back to Queenstown via a different route. What a day!

I had already explored the area by foot, but seeing Milford Sound from above put it in such a different perspective. You’d be surprised of the new things you discover from above.

Have a look yourself! 

Because we left from and returned to Queenstown, I also shot some photos around there. Throwing these ones in for free

Check out the other articles in this series here:
1. New Zealand From Above: Mount Cook National Park
2. New Zealand From Above: West Coast
3. New Zealand From Above: Tasman region

Disclosure: The flight experience was offered to me by Milford Sound Scenic Flights. All opinions are, as always my own.

The post New Zealand From Above: Milford Sound appeared first on The World is a Circus.

Wine Tasting Gibbston Valley

All romantic weekends start with wine, right? Or is that just me? A great place for wine tasting is Gibbston Valley, known for its pinot noir. The vineyard is surrounded by two large mountain ranges: The Remarkables and the Crown Range. All grapes are hand-picked and they have the largest wine cave in the country, which you can visit!

Onsen hot pools

Soaking in warm water with a stunning view on the mountains? Is this real? Yes it is! At the Onsen Hot Pools you’re given a private jacuzzi overlooking the Shotover River canyon. You can rent them for an hour and even enjoy some extra bubbles and nibbles if you’d like (we like of course!). I was in heaven! One of the best ways to warm up on a chilly day and enjoy some perfect quality time with your sweetheart.

Enjoy a movie in Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a tiny village close to Queenstown, which looks beautiful in autumn. If you fancy a movie I highly recommend going to Dorothy Browns, Arrowtown’s boutique, independent cinema. It has two cosy cinema rooms and you can take a drink and nibbles inside. This is a perfect evening activity for a romantic weekend in Queenstown.

Lunch @ The Sherwood

There are many options for date night/lunch in Queenstown, but I’ll share one of my favourites with you: The Sherwood. It’s part of a hotel, and usually I would never have go to a hotel café and restaurant, but this one is different. It is cosy, original and has great food (and wifi).

Eco Scapes

If you really want to treat your other half, I recommend spending the night at Eco Scapes, in Glenorchy. First of all, the drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is one of the most scenic routes in New Zealand. There are many viewpoints to take a stunning photo. Second, the Eco Scapes accommodation will blow your mind away.

The Eco Scapes rooms have everything you need (and desire), but most of all you get the best view from your bed: nature. It is a view with a room around it. To make it even better, the blinds at night turn into a projector, where you can watch Netflix. House dreams come to life at Eco Scapes!

The Scenery

Mountains surround Queenstown, making the scenery a treat! You don’t have to go far to get those jaw-dropping views. Take your lovers’ arm and go to Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown Hill, Ben Lomond, Moke Lake or one of the many options around Queenstown.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Daniel Murray | New Zealand (@danielmurray.nz)

The Skyline Gondola

You want to enjoy the scenery together, but don’t feel like walking? Lucky for you there is a gondola up the hill. For $35 you rise 450 metres above Queenstown and you get a 220 degree panoramic view. Pretty spectacular.

There is even a bar and restaurant to have a cocktail, but what I enjoy more is the luge, those little carts that go downhill. If you’re a couple that likes to let the kid in you come out – do the luge! Just ignore the many kids on the track and you’ll have the time of your life.

Scenic flight over the mountains

Get butterflies in your belly with a flight over the mountains. We took a flight with Milford Scenic Flights to Milford, showing us the best of Queenstown and Milford. There are massive mountains everywhere, however the lakes and waterfalls are impressive too! I took so many photos, kept looking around in awe and definitely felt butterflies (not from my boyfriend though, sssst..)

Stroll through town

Unlike some other New Zealand cities, Queenstown is very nice to have a stroll. There are lots of shops, cafes and restaurants to explore. Queenstown also often puts on cool events, so definitely check Queenstown Tourism’s diary when you’re planning your romantic weekend in Queenstown.

Milford Sound

If you only spend a weekend in Queenstown you might not have time to add this to your list, but if you have more time: do a cruise in Milford Sound. A four hours drive will take you there, or you can go with one of the many companies offering day trips from Queenstown to Milford Sound. I arrived in Milford Sound with the scenic flight, but I assure you the road trip is impressive too.

Milford Sound is very isolated and feels much different than the rest of New Zealand. Cruise along on one of the boats and enjoy the wild views. I was on the Mitre Peak boat, and it takes you two hours on the water, passing the iconic Mitre Peak, the Stirling Falls, and you might even see seals and dolphins!

Watch a sunrise together

What’s more romantic than getting up early and freezing your bum off to watch a sunrise? There are many options around Queenstown to watch one. Take a hot cup of coffee, a blanket and just enjoy.

I hope I gave you some inspiration for a romantic weekend in Queenstown! Let me know if I forgot any activities. 

Disclosure: the flight, cruise, accommodation, wine tasting and hot pools experience was offered to me. All opinions are, as always my own. No boyfriends were harmed during this romantic weekend in Queenstown.

The post How to spend a romantic weekend in Queenstown? appeared first on The World is a Circus.