Our May Highlights

Winter is here! In the month of May, it hit us hard and we had to prepare ourselves. We acquired a second warm blanket and thermal socks. Many nights in the car were only bearable with long sleepwear. Nevertheless, we were able to explore many new places that were not too crowded due to the off-season.

This month, we mainly focused on the north of the South Island. As always, we came up with eleven questions to review the month. To make it clearer for you which answers belong to whom, Tobi's answers will be bold and my answers will be italicized - because of course, even the two of us are not always of the same opinion. ;)

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- Your journey took you along New Zealand's coasts a lot. Which bay did you like right away? -
Tobi: Elaine Bay in the far north was picturesque. From a wooden jetty, we could see native stingrays and a panorama of the highest class.
Nadine: After a bumpy arrival, we reached a bay that invited us to stay despite regular ferry traffic. It's no wonder we spent several days at French Pass.

- Did you have any other natural wonders in good memory? -
The starry sky over New Zealand is one of the purest in the world. In May, we were far enough away from the light and civilization several times to be able to admire it without any restrictions.
Although you couldn't explore them on your own, the dimension and countless stalactites were impressive! Rawhiti Cave is definitely worth a visit.

- Adventure New Zealand ... what adventure is your biggest in the month of May? -
Descending into an unexplored cave at your own risk is one thing. Walking through the darkness and over muddy ground is another. When you have to overcome three to four meters of difference in height without any safety measures, it quickly becomes an unforgettable experience! The morning in Stafford's Cave was pure adventure.

- That requires a lot of energy. Which meal gave you new energy? -
Especially on Sundays, we took more time to cook and ate more elaborate dishes. For example, meatballs with almond-broccoli and pumpkin mash.
In New Zealand, we developed a love for red cabbage salad. We like it best with mango, walnuts, and crusty bread.

- If you had to limit yourselves to one personal highlight, what would it be? -
*sing* Eintracht vom Main, nur du sollst heute siegen. Eintracht vom Main, weil wir dich alle lieben. - The Pokalwunder von Berlin.
For me, it was visiting the water source that springs directly from the mountain just below Takaka Hill. A magical, almost fairytale-like place, somewhere in the middle of nowhere.

- On a long journey, you meet many people. Which encounter stuck in your mind? -
In Collingwood, we met "Manny," the typical New Zealander, who limits himself to simple things and prefers to spend time in nature. Together, we philosophized about life - with and without today's technology.

- What else inspired you last month? -
The "50 Greatest Photographs - National Geographic" exhibition was inspiring for us, but also impressive. Each of the pictures, along with its background story, made us think and exuded something unique.

- Take a deep breath. Were there moments of worries? -
The rattling stone in the underside of our car drove us to despair.
When you turn the key and the car doesn't start after several attempts, the nervousness rises. Luckily, as often, it was just the battery.

- You old "New Zealand experts," do you have a insider tip? ;) -
The region around Golden Bay, at the northern tip of the South Island, must not be missed. Dream beaches, large caves, springs, and untouched nature are waiting for visitors there.

- This month, you seem to be quite unanimous. What about the animal experiences this month? -
At the remote campsite in Totaranui, we had plenty of spectators while cooking and eating. The native birds, Weka and Pukeko, were always present and waiting for us to drop something.
At sunrise on Wharariki Beach, we discovered 12 baby seals frolicking, swimming, and wrestling in the safe pool. The moment was characterized by an incredible tranquility. Except for us, no one else was there, so the animals could play undisturbed.

- And last but not least: Your favorite pictures from the month of May! -

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Those were our highlights of the past month. If you want to learn more about the individual places, you are welcome to check out the previous blog posts.
We will continue to do our best to let you take part in the adventure of New Zealand.

We are curious how cold the winter in New Zealand really gets and when we will return to the North Island.