Living in Australia, I’ve always been aware of how far away we are from the rest of the world. It often feels like only the truly determined travellers make their way down here. But just beyond our shores lies another country, equally distant yet full of wonder—New Zealand.
I recently journeyed through the South Island, and each day felt like stepping into a new postcard. I shared daily recaps of what we visited, but looking back now, I realise it was more than just ticking off places on a map. It was about slowing down, breathing in the crisp air, and letting the landscapes leave their mark.
For today’s theme, Joanne’s “Everyone Should See This”, I’ve gathered together moments that remind me why New Zealand has quickly become one of my favourite countries. It’s a place that humbles you with its mountains, stirs you with its lakes, and leaves you quietly grateful just to stand still and take it all in.
As I’ve said, it is now one of my favourite countries—and truly, I think everyone should see it at least once.
Some of the glacial lakes like Tekapo and Pukaki glow with a surreal turquoise, their colour shifting with the light and clouds. It almost has a dreamlike hue, as if the whole landscape has been dipped in magic.
The South Island, as I mentioned in a post a few months back, seems to have more sheep than people. Hard to believe until I actually saw it with my very own eyes—rolling hills dotted with countless woolly figures. And it’s not just sheep either. To my surprise, there are alpacas everywhere too, casually grazing like they own the place.
Whether you’re on a road trip or joining a coach tour, the views are absolutely to die for—mountains, lakes, and endless stretches of clouds that look like they’ve been painted onto the landscape.
Beautiful! Thank you for sharing your trip!
Thanks, my pleasure.
Wow, these photographs are amazing, Teresa! I can see why you feel New Zealand is such a special place. This is a great response to the challenge. I especially liked the lakes with clouds.
Thanks so much for your thoughts Joanne and thanks for having this theme for this week, it was such great memories.
This could be an advertisement for New Zealand travel! Your photos are stunning and I can see why you think everyone should see it.
Haha I noticed that, maybe I should advertise it. Thanks so much.
You’ve captured the essence of NZ. I lived there for nearly 40 years, and hold very fond memories of it
Wow 40 years. I could imagine the memories you’ve made.
Such lovely photos Techie. Great country.😘
Yes it is. I want to go back, but food is expensive
Lovely Aotearoa sights Teresa
Thanks Brian, I was definitely smitten.
Stunning, Teresa. I’m heading back into Christchurch again next week.
Lucky you. Have a great time Coral.
Ah! Australia and NZ are countries I shall now never see. But your posts offer tantalising glimpses. Thank you!
And this is for you then. Thanks Margaret.
👍
You’re definitely selling New Zealand very well and it’s moved back up my wishlist at least in part through seeing your photos of those wonderful landscapes!
Glad I did somehow inspire your bucketlist.
We also loved New Zealand Teresa but in those days I didn’t have a digital camera so my images are all in a scrapbook. It was wonderful reliving the adventure through your beautiful post.
I don’t know how we survived that time. Thanks Tina for the comment.
Lovely images, Teresa.
Thanks for the visit, Donna.
Stunning photos of NZ, Teresa. I truly wish we could visit xx
Well, what are you waiting for? haha Afraid of the long haul flight? Well that’s my feeling traveling to Europe.
We’ve never done long haul and Michael really doesn’t want to xx
Easy to see why you love it so much, Teresa. Magical place.
Stunning captures of NZ. It’s such a beautiful country.
Wonderful, Teresa! We stayed there for a month many years ago – but it was the most wonderful month I have had away from home. Seeing your photos brings tears to my eyes – I so loved this piece of our planet. I am glad to see you mention the fresh air too. And it is – the land of the long white clouds!
Glad you feel the same way A-C. At first hubby and I were thinking if we loved it because it was the first time that we had a road trip just by ourselves with no pressure and no rush? Or is the country just simply wonderful period. There are no words to describe it. Thanks for the comment.