A Love Letter to New Zealand
Cathedral Cove
A love letter to a country that felt like home,
From the moment I landed, New Zealand had my heart. I don’t really know how to describe how it felt, other than an immediate sense of belonging. Like a hug from a loved one after an extended time apart… except I had never been there before.
Maybe it was seeing the scenery through a screen during countless rewatches of The Lord of the Rings trilogy over nearly two decades. Maybe it was the magic of so many different terrains packed into such a small country. Or perhaps it was simply that I’ve always been meant to be there. Whatever the reason, it’s been six years, and I still feel a deep longing to return.
Visitors are asked to take the Tiaki Promise – a pledge to care for people and place. I saw this ideology embodied in every moment I was there. From the spotless trails to the warm smiles shared, it left a lasting impression.
I am convinced that vanlife is the best (and only) way someone should experience this country. Driving on the opposite side of the road was a mental hurdle to overcome, but worth every stress-filled moment. My little home on wheels was perfect for exploring all that New Zealand had to offer – from snow-capped mountains to hobbit-sized film sets, groaning up steep hills to nearly running out of gas on the Forgotten World Highway (oops!). I truly wouldn't change a thing.
Mount Cook National Park, Mueller Hut in the background
New Zealand, thank you for not only exceeding my expectations, but blowing them right out of the water. I don’t typically consider myself a crier, but I shed literal tears of joy more than once during this adventure. It was a dream come true. I cannot wait to be surrounded by your rolling hills and walk your trails again. I’ll be back soon.
A Kiwi at heart,
Megan
