My first 15 days in New Zealand

A lot of time has passed, and I have experienced and seen a lot since then.

So let's start at the beginning:

On 30th September 2018, it was time to say goodbye to Bali and hello to the next adventure.

This farewell was very difficult for me, as it was also the farewell to my sister, and I had so much fun with her and the trip was a great experience. I am very grateful to her for embarking on my first backpacking trip with me, it was a very impressive and special time. Chiara and I make a great travel team.

With this sad and heartbreaking feeling, I embarked on my last long-haul flight to Auckland. My first days in New Zealand were a bit overshadowed by this feeling, especially since it is a big change to suddenly be alone and in a different country. However, New Zealand was definitely the right country for this experience, as I instantly felt more comfortable due to the open, friendly, and helpful nature of the Kiwis.

I spent my first five days in Auckland, exploring the surroundings. My program included hiking up Mount Eden, visiting the Auckland Harbor, exploring Queen Street, and getting settled in New Zealand.

On October 5th, the great adventure with the car began. I will explore and discover New Zealand for the next six months with a converted Toyota Estima. The following 10 days, I traveled with Steffi, a friend who previously owned the car, through the North of New Zealand. Having a car meant we always had our bed and food with us and could stop wherever we liked. However, free camping is no longer allowed in New Zealand, so we stayed at various campsites, some of which were very beautiful.

Our first stop was Piha, then we continued to Whangarei, then Paihia, then Kerikeri, then on to ninety mile Beach, and finally up to Cape Reinga.

From what I have seen so far, New Zealand definitely lives up to all expectations and it is truly a beautiful and impressive country.

I am particularly fascinated by the endless country roads that run through such beautiful landscapes and are an adventure in themselves. Driving on the left side of the road has not been too problematic, although at the beginning I had to think hard when making turns, but that has improved over time.

Driving through the empty streets of New Zealand and being surrounded by such beautiful nature gives you an incredible feeling of freedom.