Hi, we’re Xavier and Christina! Join us on an epic 18-day winter road trip across New Zealand’s breathtaking South Island! ❄️🚗 This adventure is filled with stunning landscapes, unforgettable experiences, and hidden gems, all shared across multiple episodes.
📍 In This Episode:
We start in the adventure capital of Queenstown, where we board the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship to cross the serene Lake Wakatipu. Our destination is the charming Walter Peak High Country Farm, where we experience authentic New Zealand farm life and enjoy stunning lakeside views. Later, we drive to the peaceful Glenorchy Wharf, a quiet spot perfect for stargazing and capturing the Milky Way in all its glory.
Next, we travel to the tranquil town of Te Anau, known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park. We explore the picturesque Lake Te Anau, visit the magical underground world of the Glowworm Caves, and take a scenic day trip to the iconic Milford Sound. Dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” Milford Sound offers towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and playful encounters with keas, New Zealand's cheeky alpine parrots. A day cruise through the fjord is an unforgettable highlight!
📌 Sneak Peek at the Next Episode:
Our journey continues in the historic university town of Dunedin, famous for its vibrant student life and stunning coastal attractions. We visit the Nugget Point Lighthouse, perched atop rugged cliffs with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The area is also home to unique wildlife, including seals and penguins.
From Dunedin, we drive to Lake Wanaka via the spectacular Crown Range Road, the highest road in New Zealand, offering jaw-dropping mountain vistas and thrilling switchbacks. In Wanaka, we hike the iconic Roy’s Peak, one of the most famous and rewarding trails in New Zealand, with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
Our next stop is the awe-inspiring Mount Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Surrounded by glaciers and alpine meadows, this destination is perfect for adventurers and nature lovers. We’ll explore the famous Hooker Valley Track, offering stunning views of the Southern Alps and Mount Cook itself.
We’ll wrap up this part of the journey at Lake Tekapo, known for its vibrant turquoise waters, hot springs, and the Church of the Good Shepherd, a stone chapel sitting beautifully against a backdrop of the Southern Alps. At night, the area transforms into a stargazing paradise, as it’s part of the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve.
🎥 What to Expect in This Series:
The beauty and challenges of driving New Zealand’s South Island in winter
Must-visit landmarks and hidden gems
Iconic hikes, magical fjords, and serene lakes
Tips and experiences to inspire your own South Island road trip
🌟 Don’t miss a moment of this incredible journey! Subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to catch the next episode as soon as it’s out.
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xavierica
Thanks a lot for watching and I hope to see you in the next video!
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Useful information from the video:
Accomodations:
Queenstown Sudima Five Miles
Justine's Airbnb in Te Anau
Kiwiana Holiday Home in Dunedin
Jude's Airbnb in Wanaka
Mackenzie's Apartment in Twizel
Haka House Hostel in Lake Tekapo
Tommy's Fall in Akaroa
Misty Meadow Airbnb in Christchurch
Car Rental:
Omega Car Rental
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My Gear:
Sony Alpha 7 IV : amzn.to/3zyr3gw
Sigma 24-70 f.28 DG DN Art: amzn.to/4cQ8X86
DJI Osmo Action : amzn.to/4cNqiyb
DJI Osmo Pocket 3: amzn.to/3ztklbn
DJI RS Mini 3: amzn.to/4cKEpV2
Peak Design Tripod: amzn.to/3xKoW8A
DJI Mini 4 Pro: amzn.to/3Ld4CQr
🎧 Music license from Artlist 🎧
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Chapters:
0:00 Highlights
0:53 Queenstown
2:09 TSS Earnslaw
3:34 Walter Peak High Country Farm Tour
6:50 Glenorchy Wharf
7:45 Te Anau
12:04 Enroute to Milford Sound
12:52 Milford Sound
15:54 Kea
#newzealand #travel #travelvlog