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Stunning South

For years I have heard about the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, and most people I have spoken to prefer the South Island. For this reason I knew I needed to visit, even if it was just for a few days. Although I did not have NEARLY enough time, I got to see just a few highlights of this amazing place.


  I flew into Christchurch, a city which was devastated by an earthquake seven years ago. You could still see remains of the destruction everywhere but I loved the spirit of the city. Despite enduring something so heartbreaking, the people were coming together, and working hard to make the city even better than before.

After exploring the city for a couple of days I took a day trip to Akaroa, a beautiful harbor side town. Getting out of the city gave me a chance to see the stunning landscape that the South is famous for
When I got to Akaroa I had a couple of hours to explore before heading out on my dolphin excursion. I bopped around some shops then had a coffee with this fantastic view:


Then it was time to head to the pier for my excursion! As I was walking up I saw a group of people gathered taking pictures.

This definitely made me a bit nervous to jump in these waters but supposedly they are harmless (doubt Steve Irwin would agree but anyways)

So we headed out to find the Hector Dolphin; one of the most rare breeds in the world. They are only found in the South of New Zealand, as if I needed another selling point for swimming with these guys 


Eventually we found some, hopped in the water and got to swim with them and it was MAGIC 😍



So South Island was off to a great start. Eventually I was trying to get down to Queenstown but the idea of a 10 hour bus ride didn't appeal to me so I decided to break it up a bit. I headed down to Dunedin, a University town which was quite pretty. I was only there for one night but I got to do some exploring and hiking.

The next day I continued on my voyage to Queenstown. Although I was spending alot of time on the bus I can't complain too much because the scenery was absolutely amazing 


Finally I made it to Queenstown, and I could understand why its such a backpacker hot spot. (It books out weeks in advance) It is the most charming town surrounded by stunning mountains. Everywhere you look it is absolutely gorgeous!



I spent the next few days exploring and hiking my way through this amazing place



I could not have asked for a more beautiful place to end my tour of New Zealand!


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