New Zealand in summer is always a good idea. There's no place better to spend the lazy days of January for a Kiwi who spends most of her time trying to keep up with the bustle of London. So when the idea of a sponsored road trip was born and the opportunity came up to visit some of the most picturesque corners and my most-missed cities and beaches from Marlborough to Waiheke, I jumped.
The itinerary would see me weave my way from my home in Blenheim to Auckland, hanging my hat in idyllic destinations along the way, courtesy of Luxury Lodges of New Zealand. With a carefully curated Moochi summer holiday wardrobe and the keys to the one-off Moochi-designed Renault Clio, I set out with my younger sister Sophie.
Our first destination was Bay of Many Coves Resort, on the shores of Queen Charlotte Sound. With a private jetty and an uninterrupted view of passing boats this five-star resort is a slice of paradise. One of the best things to do here is soak up the natural beauty from the waterfront restaurant's deck where we enjoyed a seven-course degustation created by executive chef Francisco Sabando De Castillo.
While in Marlborough we made the most of the picturesque beaches, such as Port Underwood. On a calm summer day this place is pure magic - warm water perfect for swimming in, epic views and reliable fishing nearby.
Next we crossed Cook Strait to Wellington and I reacquainted myself with my favourite New Zealand city, the "birthplace" of my blog, We The People. Pohutukawa in full flower along Oriental Parade is definitely a sight for sore, homesick eyes.
Heading north, we found ourselves at the boutique Greenmantle Estate on the Kapiti Coast. It is a peace-seeker's dream, set on a country estate in lush green surroundings. It's not hard to find a little patch of garden to unwind in and soak up the sounds of summer birdlife - the nikau forest was a welcome spot of calm after my quick catch-up with Wellington city.
From there we headed to River Birches Lodge in Turangi and an early night to bed before tackling what many describe as the best one-day walk in the country.
This home-away-from-home on the banks of the Tongariro offers an exclusive, privately guided crossing in the World Heritage Tongariro National Park.
The day-long hike took us across rocky, volcanic terrain but, thanks to our knowledgeable guide, Terry from Walking Places, and the incredible views, the journey was nothing but enjoyable. Reaching the top of Mt Tongariro and looking down over the emerald pools was easily one of the best experiences I've had in New Zealand.
Setting off around Taupo we stopped at Huka Falls to check out the powerful waterfall and blue river below before heading to Treetops Lodge. Set on an expansive 1000ha, Treetops was a walk through the wilderness that reminded me how unique the countryside is and how vast and impenetrable the native bush can be. This is a stunning property that offers a real experience of the native environment.
Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.Two nights here had us back in tune with New Zealand's serene and beautiful landscape, rested and ready to hit the beach at Mt Maunganui. We were happy to sneak a few hours relaxing there under perfect skies. Another sponsor on our Moochi Clio Road Trip was Long White Vodka, who provided us with enough of their natural flavours with sparkling water to quench our thirst.
After a spot of shopping at Moochi in Tauranga we made our way into town for dinner and drinks. The menu at Flour + Water Eatery was too good to pass up. The following morning we swung by Luca for deliciously strong coffee, then popped next door to Cafe 88 for one good-looking chia pudding.
We travelled through the Waikato region and on to Auckland, arriving in time to catch a ferry to Waiheke Island for dinner at The Oyster Inn and a day exploring the island's finest wine lists.
Our Waiheke home for the night was The Winemakers Loft on Te Arai Estate. On arrival we were treated to a tasting of the vineyard's first vintage chardonnay by master of wine Sam Harrop. We were glad to relax with this locally produced zesty wine and slip into "island time".
The next day we visited Te Motu vineyard and restaurant for lunch in the Onetangi valley. It is a unique take on rural wine-shed dining. We opted to cool down with the full-flavoured but refreshing Te Motu Rosé to complement our sharing plates, including Keralan fish and Ora king salmon.
See photos from Jessie's road trip here:
