New Zealand South Island Travelogue 2023
I started the fourth quarter of 2023 with a trip to New Zealand, and was mesmerized by its natural beauty — mystical fjords, crystal clear lakes, picturesque valleys, and snow mountains. New Zealand’s Forest is a natural feast rich with biodiversity, a paradise for the animal kingdom to flourish. We had a 10-day séjour and drove along main attractions of the South Island, including the Milford Sound, the beautiful lakes (Wakaputi, Wanaka, and Tepako), and Mountain Cook. The trip felt like discovering a tip of the iceberg of New Zealand’s natural beauty, as multiple day hiking treks, glacier walks, and expeditions into the natural reserves called for greater time. Yet, I feel blessed with a first introduction to the south pole’s landscape, and a beautiful moment in time with family.
Upon arrival of New Zealand’s airport, we were greeted with meticulous customs checks that reflected the country’s emphasis towards biodiversity and sustainability. Along the trip, the townships’ non-commercialized village scene, the people’s outdoor sports frenzy and simple attire, as well as its well-preserved national parks manifested that people from all walks of life and industry sectors work together for the wealth of nature. I enjoyed the non-commercial and tranquil townships, as the absence of “grande marques” gave the villages a calm and approachable ambiance. Work-life balance was also reflected in the opening hours of village stores and restaurants, as shops and restaurants end their business around 5pm. I enjoyed a few home-cooked meals, and as New Zealand boosts a rich produce of vegetables, fruits, and seafood, ingredients were fresh albeit on the pricier end.
New Zealand’s special geographic location and higher living costs were important elements that made it an isolated natural kingdom. With a long flight time (especially for European and American travelers), nature-oriented expeditions, and essential road-trip style transportation, the country attracts a smaller cohort of visitors by selection. We were awestruck by the vastness of land and natural beauty, and we often pass by only a handful of cars along a multiple hour drive along a one-way lane. Milford Sound presented beautiful U-shaped Fjords with stunning alpine scenery. We arrived on a misty day, and the combination of snowy mountain cliffs, plunging waterfalls, ink-dark waters, and dramatic forest-clad cliffs presented a mystical and captivating views.
Another highlight was Mountain Cook National Park, but we were unable to explore it fully with the capricious weather — heavy snow and the icy cold, thus we did not complete the glacier trek. But we did explore the region by hiking an initial part of the trail amid the cold. The muddy and rocky route was desolate under the stormy clouds, and it felt magical and tranquil with only surrounding mountains and Tasman valley in sight. Along the way, we saw several brown rabbits hopping around the slippery track, while snow fell lightly around us. The silent force of nature, the vibrant biodiversity, and the timeless carvings of glaciers left a mark in my heart — it would be a trek that stays in my heart — until the next time:)
