NZed Life Diaries

NZed Life Diaries Exploring the everyday magic of life in New Zealand — one road trip, one memory, one diary at a time. 🇳🇿❤️

08/11/2025

Summer’s rolling in across Aotearoa—long days, wild trails, and ice creams that melt faster than my hiking motivation. ☀️ From golden beaches to alpine lakes, summer in New Zealand is that sweet mix of freedom and sunburn you’ll laugh about later.

There’s something about the Kiwi summer that makes you slow down—road trips with the windows down, dips in rivers that feel straight out of a postcard, and sunsets that linger like they’ve got nowhere else to be. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls up north or camping under the Southern stars, this is the season to just go—barefoot, curious, and a little bit sun-kissed.

Pro tips:
🌞 Always pack sunscreen and a hat—the NZ sun doesn’t play around.
🚙 Road trips are best in the early morning before the summer traffic hits.
🏕️ Book your DOC campsites early; spots fill up faster than a scoop of hokey pokey ice cream in January.
🌊 And never underestimate the magic of a spontaneous swim—because summer here is all about saying yes to the moment.

03/11/2025

If New Zealand had a flavor for summer, it would definitely taste like fresh-picked strawberries! 🌞

Just a short drive from town, Jillian’s Farm & Café in Whakatāne is where the pick-your-own magic happens — rows of vibrant red berries, sunshine on your skin, and that satisfying “pop” when you find the perfect one.

After filling your basket, head to the café for their famous real fruit ice cream or a lazy lunch with a view — the perfect ending to a berry-filled morning. 🍦

Pro Tips:
🍓 Go early for the freshest picks and cooler weather.
👒 Bring a hat, sunscreen & comfy shoes.
📸 Snap those red-and-green fields — they’re reel gold.
🧺 Pick wisely — you pay by the kilo 😉

Because here in NZ, it’s not just about strawberries… it’s about slowing down and tasting summer straight from the vine. ❤️

02/11/2025

The journey vs the view — Omaru Falls edition 💦

The walk was long, muddy, and mildly character-building 😅 — but the view? Absolutely worth every slip. A 45-metre waterfall that rewards your effort with pure magic. 🌿✨

You’ll trek through farmland, wobble on a hanging bridge, and question your life choices once or twice… until the roar of the falls makes it all make sense.

Best time to visit: After a bit of rain (for full flow, minus the flood 😆).
Why go: Fewer crowds, stunning photo spots, and that “I earned this view” satisfaction.

Pro tip: Wear good shoes, pack your humor, and prepare to get a little muddy — that’s part of the adventure. 💚

26/10/2025

Zooming out… because words could never capture this view.

Hidden deep in the forests of Kawerau lies Tarawera Falls — where the river literally bursts out of a rock face. It’s one of those spots that make you question if Mother Nature has a flair for drama (spoiler: she does).

🗺️ Why visit: It’s not your average waterfall. The water disappears underground from Lake Tarawera and reappears halfway down a cliff — pure geological magic!

👟 Pro tip:
• You’ll need a permit from the Kawerau i-SITE to access the road to the falls.
• Access allowed only during weekends and holidays.
• Bring good shoes — the short forest walk is easy but can get slippery after rain.
• Best time to go? Early morning — you’ll get the mist, birdsong, and that cinematic light for your zoom-out shot.

📸 Trust me, no filter needed. Tarawera doesn’t just fall — it wows.

22/10/2025

Three Wonders of Waikato — One Unforgettable Day Trip🌿✨

If you ever find yourself wandering through the heart of the Waikato region, there’s a trio of natural gems waiting to surprise you — Marokopa Falls, Piripiri Cave, and the Mangapohue Natural Bridge.

First stop, Marokopa Falls 💦 — often called one of New Zealand’s most beautiful waterfalls, this 35-meter cascade is pure drama in motion. The short walk from the carpark is lush and easy, and the viewing platform gives you that postcard-perfect shot. Tip: Go after a bit of rain — it’s when the falls are most powerful (and most photogenic).

Next, just a few minutes away, lies Piripiri Cave 🕳️ — a short trail through native bush leads to a hidden limestone cave. Bring a flashlight or phone torch; it’s dark but safe to explore. Step inside, and you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into another world — cool, quiet, and full of ancient whispers.

Finally, end your mini adventure at the Mangapohue Natural Bridge 🌉 — a breathtaking 17-meter-high limestone arch that was once part of an ancient cave system. The boardwalk trail through the gorge makes it easy and family-friendly. Don’t miss the upper viewing platform — it’s where you’ll get that cinematic moment (especially around golden hour).

✨ Why you should go:
Because in just one scenic loop, you get waterfalls, caves, and natural arches — all within a 15-minute drive from each other. It’s the perfect day trip if you love short walks, nature photography, and hidden gems that don’t need a long hike to impress.

📍 Travel Tips:
• Located about 30–40 minutes from Waitomo Caves
• All three spots are free to visit
• Wear comfy shoes (some trails can get muddy)
• Bring snacks — there aren’t many cafes nearby
• And always, leave no trace 🌱

So if you’re chasing beauty off the beaten path, let Waikato show you what “untouched New Zealand” really looks like. 🚗💚

18/10/2025

Just a dad, a daughter, and a passing train under the cherry blooms — simple moments, big memories. 🌸💞
📍Otumoetai Rail Reserve

08/10/2025

Not all who wander are lost… some just found Hobbiton. 💚

Our family spent the day exploring Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, New Zealand — the real-life Shire from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit! 🧙‍♂️🍃

From wandering past tiny hobbit holes to having a drink at The Green Dragon Inn, every corner feels like stepping straight into a movie scene. 🎥✨

If you’re planning a NZ trip, this is a must-see spot — magical for kids, nostalgic for fans, and picture-perfect for everyone! 📸🌸

Just three hobbits on an adventure💚
08/10/2025

Just three hobbits on an adventure💚

05/10/2025

Them in NZ: “Are you filming the flowers?”
Me: “Of course! We don’t have these back home!” 🌸🇵🇭

When you grow up with tropical greens, seeing pink petals feels straight out of a dream.

Hey everyone! 👋Welcome to NZed Life Diaries 🇳🇿✨We’re a family of three finding our rhythm, our roots, and our favourite ...
05/10/2025

Hey everyone! 👋
Welcome to NZed Life Diaries 🇳🇿✨

We’re a family of three finding our rhythm, our roots, and our favourite little corners of New Zealand — one diary entry at a time. 🌿

From weekend road trips and playgrounds with ocean views, to cozy café mornings and spontaneous roadside stops, we’re capturing the beauty (and sometimes the chaos!) of everyday Kiwi life.

This page is our travel and family journal — a mix of scenic adventures, local gems, and heartfelt moments of what it’s really like to live, explore, and grow in Aotearoa.

So come along for the ride! 🚗
Let’s wander, laugh, and make memories under the New Zealand sun together. ☀️

💬 Follow our journey — one story, one trip, one photo at a time.

Homemade chocolate crinkles, anyone??
30/08/2024

Homemade chocolate crinkles, anyone??

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