NZ

J.R.R. Tolkien undoubtedly had a creative gift rivalled by few through the history of fictional literature. His writings unlock the visionary capacity of the reader. Many walk away from his work with a Cert 4 in constructing the most beautifully conceivable landscapes. Subsequently, it is no surprise that Peter Jackson was drawn to New Zealand as the perfect location to bring Tolkien’s work to life. This country is next level spectacular. At the end of any trip to New Zealand, your neck is weary from turning at all angles, trying to soak it in and your lungs are barren from perpetually encountering breath-taking vistas around every corner. Being slapped in the face with naturally formed beauty everywhere, your time there can actually be taxing, and somewhat numbing. This is why our mid-Autumn, South Island trip to Aotearoa can only be defined as the perfect intersection in the ‘great fishing’ and ‘great landscapes’ Venn diagram.

Considering the concept is relative, the ‘highlights’ of the trip are hard to define. It’s a place where every day feels like a privilege. Every nook and cranny would be a ‘hall of fame’ entrant in any other country. It has to be said, the best of the South Island’s best stays with you. The towering ranges topping the Otago backcountry, crane ever upwards and are littered with haggard brush, peppered amongst the blue ironed stone crags. The illuminated turquoise-hued rivers slice bend by bend down the grassland strewn valleys. The thickened Fiordland beech forest, groaning under a mass of lush greenery. It all has to be seen to be believed, and even when you do, you won't.

Read the full version of Season 22/23 Review here