New Zealand Specialist

Calving Glacier - Franz Josef New Zealand

I call New Zealand “the other down under”. Most of the time when people think of New Zealand, they think of Australia too. Which is understandable, as the two countries are sort of isolated together at the bottom of the world. However, whereas Australia is a landmass as big as the United States, New Zealand is a fraction of the size, and it is possible to complete a thorough visit in two to three weeks.

I am fortunate to have been able to traverse this beautiful country, consisting of two islands, the North Island and the South Island. What I learned is that though it is difficult for many Americans to tell the difference between an Australian and a New Zealand accent, there definitely IS a difference! I learned that the North Island is more the island of fire, and the South Island that of ice. I learned that New Zealand (as with Australia) has some lovely wines. And I learned that you need to stay in contact with your lodge accommodations when you set out on a trek to a glacier (Franz Josef) and let them know you made it back safely or they will send out a search party, or at least phone around town to see if you have been spotted (true story!)

I am currently working on completing my New Zealand specialist training and certification, so please contact me if you would like to make your own trek to a glacier in this wonderful country!