Taking a short break in New Zealand
So, how long is a short break?
Long enough to make you feel like you've been whisked out of the norm of everyday life, but still left wanting a wee bit longer...
This article has also been published on the Tourism Industry Blog and NZ.com.
Short Breaks
After spending 4 days arm in arm with mother nature on one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, I felt refreshed, rejuvenated, and totally knackered in a very satisfying, “I've just conquered Everest” kind of way.
Getting back to basics is not for everyone and to be fair, we did have a boat carrying the majority of our provisions (including a mixed case of top notch Hawkes Bay wine). However all that exercise amongst the greenery, gulping lung loads of fresh, air did wonders.
A short break should be like a power nap, just enough to make you feel refreshed, but also leaving you feeling you would have liked just a wee bit longer. If you can get a group together, it can also be quite inexpensive. A small group is good because you can all fit in one car with any gear you need to take. You can share the accommodation costs as well as food and equipment. Plus the stories you aquire are with you all forever.
Doc does a fantastic job of maintaining the huts and tracks. Most people who walk regularly, have built up their equipment over a number of years, which is a good reason to go with those who have done it before. If you haven’t done any tramping and would like to start, The Great Walks are an excellent place to begin. They are located mainly in the South Island, but there are some spectacular ones in the North Island as well, so wherever you live, there is one within driving distance.
We are so lucky to have this great wild garden at out fingertips, which we can enjoy for really next to nothing. They do require a level of fitness, but the preparation needed to reach this point, can be motivation to continue regular exercise afterwards. Now that I’ve conquered one, I’m determined to tick off the rest!
Bits & Pieces...
Short Break Suggestions
Walking & Hiking
The Great Walks
Romantic & Luxurious
The Boot - Tasman, Nelson
Top Notch Food & Wine
Breckenridge Lodge