Author: Sophie Piearcey

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to find comfort in routine and familiarity. However, as I entered my 30s, I felt an undeniable urge to break free, upskill, and dive into a new realm of excitement and challenge. What better way to push the boundaries of my comfort zone than by exploring the world beneath the surface? This journey led me to the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, better known as PADI.

PADI isn’t just an acronym; it’s a gateway to a world of underwater wonders and self-discovery. Join me as I share my adventure of upskilling with PADI, unraveling what makes this organisation a beacon for adventure seekers, and why taking the plunge into scuba diving became a defining chapter in my 30s. It’s never too late to embrace the unknown, and PADI has guided me through an exhilarating journey of skill development, exploration, and pushing the boundaries of what I once thought possible. Let’s start from the top and dive into how PADI became my passport to a new, immersive world.

Getting my PADI Open Water certificate had always been on my list. It was something that regularly entered my mind when travelling to the likes of Thailand and Indonesia, but something held me back. Maybe it was inexperience, my acute fear of the ocean, or the fact I didn’t see myself falling in love with a sport I might not regularly partake in. How young and naive I was because cut to my 30’s, and I am 10 scuba dives into a world of adventure, and there will be no looking back for me. 

Taking the plunge in Wellington

Getting my PADI certification locally in Wellington with Dive HQ Wellington was a decision I made very quickly upon a rapidly approaching trip to Fiji, where, in turn, a select group would be learning to dive. I had the option to certify early, meaning when in Fiji, I could recreationally dive and enjoy the wonders of the underwater world there. 

The anticipation of exploring the ocean depths clashed with the reality of the initial challenges. But as the saying goes, “smooth seas do not make skillful sailors,” soon, I found myself navigating the currents of newfound knowledge and skills. Skills that one should not research before your course. I am a confessed control freak, and I thrive if I know what’s coming; however, in this scenario, the thought of taking a regulator out of my mouth and removing my mask underwater kept me up the night before my first day. 

Cut to mastering those skills in the first hour of our course, and I was away laughing. The reality of gaining your open water certification is skill mastering. Your PADI dive instructor will guide you through your training daily, skill by skill. Master one, and you move on. Simple. 

Your first day will be spent in the local pool where the aquatic wildlife for us stretched to the aqua aerobics class and midday lane swimmers. 

Day two and three, we completed a series of tasks in the open ocean and explored Wellington’s underwater playground. Taking skills from the pool to the sea and ascending on the final dive to your buddy (and dive instructor), delivering the fantastic news that you are now PADI certified! I had genuine concerns entering the training that I would not complete it, BUT to my delight, I passed, and PADI handed me my ticket to a brand new world. 

Fiji time

A short flight from Wellington transported me to the idyllic shores of Fiji, where the crystal-clear waters welcomed me into a world of vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine species. The warmth of the Fijian people and the thrill of diving in the “Soft Coral Capital of the World” made every dive an unforgettable experience.

Diving isn’t just about exploring the oceans; it’s about discovering the depths of oneself. The silence beneath the waves is a canvas for introspection, and with each dive, I unearthed a newfound appreciation for life, patience, and the interconnectedness of all living things. It’s a journey of personal transformation that transcends the physical boundaries of the underwater realm.

Seven FUN dives later at The Garden Island resort on the island of Taveuni , and I am officially hooked on Scuba diving. Every dive was magical from start to finish. Descending onto the ocean and the silence, having nothing to focus on but my breath, the silence and whatever marine life took my fancy is a world I would like to delve deeper into. The Fijian waters are like an actual fish tank full to the brim of exotic life and the most insane cabbage patch reef I have ever seen. 

The world of diving did more than give me a certification. It opened up a world to a whole new friendship group. Something is to be said about the camaraderie on a dive boat. The stoke for seeing and experiencing the same things when on the surface and the fact that without words, we can communicate our thoughts and feelings under the water… those feelings sometimes being fear when being approached by what one thought was a shark, but no, just a giant tuna. I am happy to take the brunt of jokes for the morning after that sighting. 

Encouragement for Non-Divers

To those standing on the shores, hesitant to take the plunge, I say this: the ocean is not just a place; it’s a feeling, an experience waiting to be embraced. The fear dissipates when armed with your certification, knowledge, and skillset; you will find a world that mirrors the beauty within you. Trust the process; every regulator breath echoes a tale of courage and self-discovery. One that I am so happy to have experienced in my 30’s. 

As I reflect on the chapters written underwater, my ambitions soar to new depths. The journey doesn’t end with a PADI Open Water Certification; it’s a passport to endless possibilities. The ocean’s call is strong, and I would be lying to you if I hadn’t spent my nights researching new dive sights and potential diving opportunities. So, whether I will be mastering the art of underwater navigation in the chilly waters of New Zealand or exploring exotic dive sites across the globe for my PADI Advanced Open Water certification, I am excited!

In the dance between the known and the unknown, I discovered that learning to dive is more than a skill—it’s an invitation to a world where expectations meet the unpredictable, and transformation unfolds with each dive. So, whether you’re a seasoned diver or someone contemplating the plunge, remember that the ocean is not just a destination. It is a journey that mirrors the depths of your own potential. 

Dive in, and let the adventure begin; I promise you won’t regret it. 

If you are interested in becoming a PADI open water Scuba diver or furthering your scuba skills click the link here.

BIG special Thank you GoPro for inviting me to the GoPro Creator Summit 2023 in Fiji & helping me get my PADI certification. PLUS facilitating all the adventures and opportunity. I am forever grateful and proud to fly the GoPro flag.

Embarking on a van life adventure in Tasmania, Australia, is quite the experience. With its breathtaking landscapes, untouched wilderness, and unique wildlife, Tasmania offers a captivating journey for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

We picked up our Let’s Go Motorhome from Hobart airport and hit the road. We had been planning this trip since 2020, but it got postponed thanks to the big C. I knew that the best way to explore Tassie would be in a van, and let me show you why…

This blog will focus on two of Tasmania’s most iconic destinations: Freycinet National Park and Cradle Mountain National Park. So buckle up, grab your map, and dive into the wonders that await you in the heart of Australia’s island state.

Freycinet National Park

Nestled on Tasmania’s east coast, Freycinet National Park boasts stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic granite peaks. Here are a few must-do activities in this region:

Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach: Begin your journey by hiking to the Wineglass Bay lookout, offering panoramic views of the bay below. Afterward, descend to the pristine Hazards Beach, where you can take a refreshing swim or enjoy a leisurely beach walk. We looped the lookout track for a couple of hours, take your snacks and enjoy all the little rest stops.

Cape Tourville Lighthouse: Take a short walk to the Cape Tourville Lighthouse, perched on top of the rugged cliffs. Marvel at the awe-inspiring coastal vistas, keeping an eye out for dolphins, seals, and migrating whales during the right season. The boardwalk is epic and a great photo location.

Coles Bay: Park your van in the charming coastal town of Coles Bay, the gateway to Freycinet National Park. Stock up on supplies, grab some local fish & chips, and take advantage of various accommodation options, including caravan parks and campgrounds. We stayed at the Big4, which was an excellent base.

Our short but sweet visit to Freycinet National Park was the taster I needed. Unfortunately, we got rained off the famous Mt Amos hike… a perfect excuse to return if you ask me.

Cradle Mountain National Park

Cradle Mountain National Park is a true wilderness wonderland in Tasmania’s Central Highlands. Rich in rugged beauty and abundant wildlife, it offers diverse outdoor activities to satisfy all. Plus, WOMBATS!

Dove Lake Circuit: Begin your exploration with the iconic Dove Lake Circuit, a six-kilometer loop track that encircles the glistening lake. Admire the reflection of Cradle Mountain on the tranquil waters and soak in the breathtaking alpine scenery. Easy for all fitness levels, and the views are magic if you have a still, cloudless day.

Summit Cradle Mountain: For more experienced hikers, summiting Cradle Mountain is a challenging 6-8 hour return endeavor. Climb through ancient rainforests, and over boulders, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes from the summit.

Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for unique wildlife encounters in the park, including Tasmanian devils, wombats, echidnas, and various bird species. The park’s untouched wilderness provides an excellent opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural habitat. If you want to see a wombat, head to the Ronny Creek Boardwalk. They usually are there early morning or late in the afternoon, snacking away.

Top Tips for Cradle Mountain

Here’s some tips if you are travelling to Cradle Mountain National Park soon;

• Check-in at the visitor’s centre and get your National Parks pass. You will need this to enter the parks and use the transport. You can then grab a trail map and chat with the rangers. They will tell you all you need to know and where to go
• You can’t drive into Cradle Mountain national park. Okay, so you can if you have a small car, but you must go in before the bus system starts and leave late. The bus runs between 8am – 5pm (ish)
• Your national parks pass is your bus ticket. It is unlimited, and let me tell you this, you can tick off way more trails than you think, as many of them link up and lead back to the bus stops. Head to the Cradle Mountain Lodge in the village and warm up by the open fire with a coffee and hot chips before your next trip into the park.

Places to Stay

When it comes to van life travel, Tasmania offers an array of fantastic camping and van-friendly sites. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Freycinet National Park: The park provides camping facilities, including powered sites and basic amenities. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
2. Coles Bay Caravan Park: Located near the entrance to Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay Caravan Park offers powered sites, hot showers, and a camp kitchen. It serves as an ideal base to explore the park’s wonders.
3. Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain: Situated just outside Cradle Mountain National Park, this well-equipped holiday park provides powered sites, cabins, and modern amenities. It offers a comfortable stay and easy access to the park’s attractions.

Why You Should Go to Tasmania

Tasmania’s van life adventure through Freycinet and Cradle Mountain National Parks offers an escape into nature’s embrace. Here are a few reasons why this journey should be on your travel bucket list:

Natural Beauty: The pristine landscapes of Freycinet and Cradle Mountain National Parks will leave you in awe. From picturesque beaches to rugged mountain ranges, Tasmania’s raw beauty is breathtaking.

Outdoor Activities: Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply immersing yourself in nature, these parks provide outdoor activities to suit every interest and fitness level.

Tranquility and Serenity: Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find solace in the tranquil surroundings of Tasmania’s national parks. Embrace the serenity and reconnect with nature on a deeper level.

Tasmania’s van life travel through Freycinet and Cradle Mountain National Parks offers an extraordinary adventure filled with natural wonders and unforgettable experiences. From the beaches of Freycinet to the majestic peaks of Cradle Mountain, this journey will leave you with a deep appreciation for Tasmania’s unique and unspoiled landscapes.

So, pack up your van, hit the road, and let Tasmania’s charm captivate your soul on this adventure.

The latest beauty trend – Skin Cycling 

Being a sucker for a good skin care session, I just had to get involved, and as always, when I have tried and tested something, I want you to know about it too! Skin cycling, have you ever heard of it? I hadn’t until the trend started blowing up on all your favourite social networks. 

What is skin cycling? 

I’m going to break it down for you. If you will, skin cycling takes you and your skin a cycle for four days. This is a very deliberate routine that results in glowing, radiant skin. Please take my word for it, team, I have tried it, and it works! 

The concept is on point for everything your body needs, so why not take your skin through a cycle too? Your muscles need recovery days, and your mind needs to recover, so sending the same recovery benefits to your skin makes sense. 

Skin cycling applies to a nighttime routine involving active ingredients on certain days followed by rest days and then repeating. The idea is that adopting a skin cycling routine can help prevent the skin barrier from breaking down due to the overuse of active ingredients. Plus, who else is a creature of habit? Maintaining a consistent and effective routine is excellent for overall skin health. 

What do you need? 

Here is a list of all the Glow Lab products you need for your four-day skin cycle regime.

Brightening Exfoliator

Age Renew Resurfacing Cleanser

Age Renew Retinol*Booster Oil

Glow Lab Hydrating Booster

Facial Toner

Rosehip Oil +Plus

Night Cream

Age Renew Recovery Night Cream

How does it work? 

At its most basic, skin cycling is an easy-to-follow evening skincare routine designed to prevent the irritation and sensitivity that can come from the overuse of particular actives, such as retinol, and over-exfoliation. It is designed to lessen the risk of worsening skin concerns or creating new ones!

Night One 

EXFOLIATION 

It’s all about exfoliating, baby. The Glow Lab brightening exfoliator is perfect to start. Gentle, filled with natural rosehip seed, and great for sensitive skin types like me. 

Alternatively, the Age Renew resurfacing cleanser is a dual-action AHA cleanser that resurfaces the skin without rough exfoliants – it’s up to you. I used both during my cycle and followed up with sensitive gel moisturiser after patting my face dry. 

Night Two 

RETINOL 

Cleanse, cleanse, cleanse your face, and pat it dry again. Damp skin is not ideal when applying retinol, so you want to make sure your face is dry. 

Retinoids can be harsh, I learned the hard way when one day I slapped it on like moisturiser. Glow Lab’s Age Renew Retinol Booster oil contains Bakuchiol, a gentler option for those with sensitive skin yet still works to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation. It is recommended to use it in small amounts to start. 

This oil can be incorporated into your skin cycling routine without worrying about irritation or retinoid prescriptions. It also goes a long way, so one bottle will last a good few cycles when used in small amounts. 

Nights Three & Four 

RECOVERY 

Do the mahi, get the treats, and recovery. Your recovery nights allow your skin to recover from harsh exfoliants and all the actives used in nights one and two. 

These nights are all about hydration and moisturising products after cleansing. Think Hydrating booster, toner, rosehip oil, and a firm fave in my bathroom vanity, the Age Renew Recovery night cream. All of the above will help repair your skin’s barrier resulting in a beautiful natural glow come sunrise. 

Cleanse your face, apply your toner & then boosters for an extra glowy finish, and end with a night cream before you fall into a deep relaxing sleep. 

What are the benefits? 

The process of skin cycling allows you an all-access backstage pass to understanding and getting in sync with your skin. 

You can manage the signs of sensitivity and irritation that may have been previously caused by harsh or excessive exfoliating or piling on too many active ingredients. 

Simply put, this is the perfect alternative to overdoing it. Trust the process, and forget about moving fast. This is a slow process but a quicker way to reach your skin goals. 

You know your skin and what your skin needs, so if you need to take your recovery days in between the exfoliator and retinol nights, you do that. For my sensitive skin people, especially, listen, watch, and feel what is happening so you can get the best results!

Pop through the link below or to your local supermarket, pick up your fave Glow Lab products, and let me know how your four-day skin cycle goes! 

https://www.glowlab.co.nz

You know how much the backcountry means to me if you know me. There is something so incredibly rewarding and soul-fulfilling when exploring the backcountry.

Living in Queenstown, we are never far from adventure. It’s right on our doorstep. I am no stranger to last-minute adventures, and I always seem to have a bag stashed away with my favourite backcountry meals, a sleeping bag, and my hiking boots ready to go… you know, just in case.

Before I moved to New Zealand, I had never stepped foot in the backcountry. I had barely walked, let alone hiked and slept in the wilderness. New Zealand opened my eyes to endless possibilities, mother nature’s goodness, and a sense of calm I had never experienced before. If you have followed my journey for a while, you will know that I suffer with anxiety, and before moving to New Zealand, I hadn’t addressed what was happening in my brain. 

It wasn’t until I was mid hike in the southern alps, moments away from summiting a new mountain, that my brain switched on. It was a lightbulb moment. It was a moment of pure clarity my brain had been searching for during my 25 years on the planet. 

I had the urge to hike from the moment I stepped foot in Queenstown. If you have never been to Queenstown, I am going to set the scene for you. A bright blue lake sits in the middle of our town, surrounded by towering peaks in every direction. Most can be climbed, and all provide incredible 360 views of the southern alps and the landscape below. We started small, a local track that took double the time it should due to our constant need to take photos of every pine cone on route and due to our inability to pace ourselves on a vertical ascent. 

Over time, we developed our hiking skills, gear, and adventures leading us to some of the most pristine views I have ever seen.

My lightbulb moment was here, right here in what is now my favourite place on the whole planet. Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is home to New Zealand’s tallest peak, glaciers, lakes, and a plethora of trails that will leave you wanting more, and more. As I tackled the stairs up to Sealy Tarns, my brain started to switch, I was somehow no longer consumed by thoughts of worry and doubt but concentrated on strength, resilience, and the beautiful nature surrounding me. 

Mueller hut was home for the night. As I laid in my sleeping bag, listening to the distant rumbling of avalanches and the calls of Kea, I shed a little tear. I had let the mountains in and the ‘demons’ out. My brain fog was starting to clear, and internally I was building a  connection with the emotions I was experiencing and linking them to the activity and experience I just had. It was from here that we moved quicker, higher, and more frequently in the mountains. Hiking quite literally saved my life. We took our tent, hiked to backcountry huts, or simply summited peaks in our backyard for fun on the weekends. 

Hiking quickly became my favourite thing to do, and the relationship with my brain became easier; it’s like we had exited the stage of co-existing and entered a realm of acceptance. I will forever have gratitude for the mountains, my home, and the two feet that dared to dream and join the journey for recovery. 

I truly believe that mother nature is the greatest healer. I believe that everyone, no matter their location, can directly benefit from spending time outside. Our Mental health is not to be taken lightly. It is and always will be as important as your physical health. There is quite clearly a direct correlation between the two, and until you recognise that one might need the other, you will forever sit in that uncomfortable limbo of confusion. 

I hope that something here resonated with you. I hope that if you are struggling that you find solace in the words on this screen and that you will find the courage to step outside and start your journey to recovery. If you are unsure where to start, step outside, that’s where you need to be. Find your happy place away from whatever may be standing in your way and look after your mind. It is precious. You are precious. x

Brrrrr, Winter is coming. Although some will shy away from the prospect of minus temperatures, we welcome them. Packing up the van, throwing in an additional blanket, and stocking up the tea cupboard is an ideal situation for me. Hailing from the north of England, the cold doesn’t bother me. It makes me feel at home.

The Jayco JRV is an all-year-round campervan. Fitted with a diesel heater, window shades that keep in the heat, and a large comfy bed covered in blankets ensure we are cosy, warm, and ready for adventure at any time of the year.

Winter in New Zealand is magic. The snow falls, the vibes are high, and lucky for us, snowboarding and camping are two of our favourite activities, and during four months of the year, we have the chance to combine the two. Let me take you on a tiki tour around the South Island and show you some of my favourite winter escapes here in New Zealand.

Mount Cook National Park

After my Jayco JRV, Aoraki is my first love. The mountains, the scenery, and the atmosphere of this national park captivated me from the moment I stepped foot here and has me coming back for more and more… and more. The White Horse campground is a DOC campsite, and at just $15 per adult per night, it is an ABSOLUTE steal! Did you know that Aoraki Mount Cook is a dark sky reserve? This means zero light pollution and the chance to see millions of stars blanketing the sky. Popular day hikes include the Hooker Valley Track, and Sealy Tarns, and I highly recommend the lesser-known Red Tarns for panoramic views over the mountains.

Lake Tekapo

Neighbouring Mount Cook National Park, nestled in the Mackenzie Country, is the sleepy lakeside town of Tekapo. The town is blanketed with snow in Winter, and the local ski club fields farewell from enthusiastic off-piste locals. Take short walks or hike up to the St John Observatory for an evening of stargazing and to top it off, soak your troubles away in the popular Tekapo Springs, hot pools with a view. Some use Tekapo as a pit stop, and some are wise enough to stick around for a few days and experience the delights on offer.

Kaikōura

World-renowned for its Kai Moana (seafood) incredible scenery and diverse landscape, Kaikōura is the perfect winter escape. With fewer crowds, the town slows down but never stops. Explore the ocean on a kayak tour with Kaikōura Kayaks or jump on a whale-watching cruise searching for sperm and humpback whales. If you are a keen hiker, a mission up to the Mount Fyffe summit is perfect as a return day hike or a spend a wintery night in the Mount Fyffe hut.

Fiordland National Park / Lake Te Anau

Lake Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park and if you have a few days, feel free to hang around and soak in the beauty of the place. The locals are friendly, the food is good, and the adventures are never-ending, even in Winter. Doubtful Sound to your left and Milford Sound to your right… the question is, which one? If you have the chance to do both, you should seize that opportunity, if not, Milford Sound is accessible by road, and if you are travelling in a campervan, then a night at the Milford Sound Lodge is an absolute must-do. The best way to see the Fiord, is by boat, so jump on a cruise from the terminal and explore the Tasman Sea.

Queenstown

Did you winter in New Zealand if you didn’t go to Queenstown? The home of adrenaline sports, four epic ski areas, and snow-capped mountains for as far as the eye can see. Take a hike up Queenstown Hill for 360-degree views of the lake and town below and if you are a keen ski bunny, book yourself in for a full day of mountain fun at The Remarkables. We love, love, love Queenstown in Winter and let me tell you something, you are never far from your next adventure.

Abel Tasman National Park

We get it. It’s cold, the temps are dropping, and you are searching for a little bit of sunshine on the south island. You can’t go wrong with a trip to the tropical paradise of the Abel Tasman national park. Nestled in the northwest corner of the South Island, Abel Tasman did an excellent job discovering (and naming) this haven after himself. Long white sandy beaches, glistening blue waters, and a plethora of activity on land and sea await. We love staying at The Barn at the national park border, an excellent base for kayaking and hiking.

Methven

Have you heard of Methven? Probably not. This town is again ski-related… are you noticing a theme here? West of Christchurch and on the inland route, you will find Methven. Home to the Mount Hutt ski area and a fair few pubs to help you sink the après vibes, Methven is a sweet little mountain escape. Pull up on the campground, jump on the shuttle bus, and relax in the peace of this town. Brand new Ōpuke Thermal Pools have just arrived, and they look like the dreamiest way to end your day on the hill.

Have we piqued your interest in a little winter escape? Where will you headfirst?

Thank you, Jayco, for keeping us warm, and adventure fuelled all year round.

Aotearoa, New Zealand, the land of the long white cloud, is filled to the brim with epic road trips and indescribable camping locations. It is no secret how much we love our Jayco JRV Campervan. The freedom, comfort, and ease of packing up and hitting the road were made more accessible with Jayco. Everything we need is right here, in our home on wheels. I knew the day that we picked up the Jayco, it would be the start of something beautiful, and boy, has it been a ride!

We have seen it all in our campervan, from beachfront coffees, backcountry roads, and iconic kiwi campsites. But, I am not the only one leaning into the nomadic side of life. Someone else shares a similar passion to me, and he lives right here on the South Island of New Zealand. 

Introducing my dear friend, Kyle, aka Bare Kiwi. With a thirst for life and adventure, it is no surprise that his life has taken him to all corners of the world, documenting everything on route. A few months before Jayco came into my life, Kyle had already signed sealed, and Jayco delivered on an off-road machine for Kyle & Lisa. Their Jayco All Terrain Caravan pulled to epic locations in their trusty Ford truck has a story or two to tell for sure… So let’s get stuck in and compare our two humble abodes on wheels. 

Let’s start with the obvious, one you tow, one you drive. Kyle is a caravan enthusiast, and I have been brought up with campervans in my life, so Jayco nailed it when matching these two vehicles to us. I asked Kyle some questions so we could share the van life stoke with you!  

What has been your favourite Jayco adventure? 

Sophie: Oh wow. Every day is an adventure in the Jayco, but if I have to pick one. We packed up the van for four weeks on the road at Christmas. We travelled from Queenstown, up the East Coast, through to the Abel Tasman, and back down the West Coast. It was incredible. We saw so much, met like-minded people, and camped in some stunning locations. Having the van meant we could pull up wherever we wanted to sleep the night. 

Kyle: The “No Caravans or towing vehicles” Rainbow road! Don’t worry, we called the high station farm owners before entering this adventure. All signs on the Rainbow Road state, “No Towing vehicles allowed,” But when we explained we had a Jayco Outback, his reply was ‘She’ll be right’ we even took my wife’s mum and dad for their first caravan road trip on this one haha. She was tight in a few spots and extremely bumpy in some sections, but slow and steady wins the race. This kind of road is what the Outback series is truly built for.

Where is the best campsite in New Zealand where you have stayed the night? 

Sophie: Okay, so there are three that stand out to me, but I will choose one. Off the back of our month-long Christmas trip, we added a few days on and swung through The Catlin’s on the south coast of the South Island. Purakaunui Bay (PK Bay to the locals) is wild, magic, wow, and more wow. With an awesome surf break, beachfront camping spots, and a sunrise that blew my little socks off, we could have stayed here for days on end. Highly recommend getting off the beaten track here in NZ!

Kyle: Screw you, sophie, that’s our one! Haha, and we even towed right out to the point cause that’s what bogans with flash toys do. Okay then, our second choice: This is a tough call between Totetarnui or Paturau Beach, Both in Golden Bay at the top of the South Island. Totetaranui is the only DOC campsite you can drive to in the Abel Tasman NP. It’s a massive campsite, but don’t let that put you off the place, it just means there’s something there for everyone, if you want other families to absorb your kids or hideaway in a corner on your own, it’s all there. With fire pits all over the place and some of the best of the Abel Tasman hikes on tap. However, Paturau is a real locals adventure right on the West Coast down an extremely long windy, dusty road. It’s real camping, no freshwater supply or toilets, just the real deal, but that’s why I love it there. I also don’t want to give away more than that. 

What is your favourite feature in your Jayco? 

Sophie: My favourite feature is the back lounge and bedroom area. I love how you have a lounge, dining, and sleep area all in one. The transition from day to night is so quick and easy, and the additional storage under the seats means we can keep all our duvet, sheets, and pillows in one place. There is nothing finer than throwing the doors open and starting the day with a coffee in hand and the sound of the ocean nearby. 

Kyle: The JTECH Independent Suspension and solid build has been a real game-changer to caravan life. In the words of Tony from Jayco Canterbury. You’ll give up before the caravan does. I think it’s fair to say we’ve gone places you would never dream of towing, and ‘she loves it” Oh yeah, I better mention the hot shower with unreal pressure and endless gas hot water is always a treat when backcountry

Do you have a bucket list destination for your campervan/caravan? 

Sophie: The list is never-ending. So much goodness to explore here in New Zealand. I am itching to get the van up north and spend a month meandering the roads of the North Island. With glaciers, lakes, mountains, and endless beaches, I think the experience would be epic and a photographer’s dream. 

Kyle: We had planned to get up North, but a few things got in that way… COVID19, but we will get onto 90mile beach is this year’s goal.

 

What would be your number one van life tip? 

Sophie: Take your time. There is no rush ever when in a van. Take it slow, take in the sights and ALWAYS take the back roads. After all, gravel roads lead to the best adventure. I always say to people don’t be afraid to explore off the beaten path. New Zealand is a treasure trove of incredible scenery, hidden campsites, and places to explore. 

Kyle: Work on your wave, I’m either full hand single wave like opening a jar in the air or one finger waver, so work on that with fellow caravaners and don’t be a snob. But my biggest tip is to stop and chill before parking up, get out and go for a walk around. You never know what holes of nasty are hiding in the long grass. Good communication with your partner when backing up is key. It’s not hard, but like a boat ramp, everyone is watching, hoping for a fail, and you can feel it, so relax, you’re in a caravan, and everyone can see that, so they’ve already given you a wide berth and more time. 

Is your Jayco liveable for an extended period of time?

Sophie: Absolutely. With plenty of storage, a bathroom, fridge, and full kitchen set up, we could easily and comfortably live in our Jayco for a very long time. Every day we toy with the conversation of just hitting the full road time and seeing what happens… maybe I could be tempted after the winter here in Queenstown!?

Kyle: We basically live in our full-time now. We do have a house in Motueka but are on the road so much it’s our home away from home. I even spent a winter in Queenstown in it, where the campsite taps froze, but our Jayco (100% factory spec, no added insulation) was perfect! 

Where in New Zealand is best for a road trip? 

Sophie: New Zealand’s national parks take the cake. They are incredibly diverse, stunning, and a mecca for anyone that loves a real adventure. My top two locations would be Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, a visit to the iconic White Horse Campground and sunrise at The Tasman Lake should be high on your list here. Magic at every turn, and to be in the company of New Zealand’s tallest mountain… well, that alone is a privilege. My other location would be Fiordland National Park. Unpredictable, insane weather patterns and 1.2 million hectares of temperate rainforest. For hikers, Fiordland is the place to be. You really can’t go wrong with Great Walks, day hikes, short strolls, and campsites nestled in the bush. You really can’t go wrong. I also think Milford Sound should be on everyone’s bucket list. 

Kyle: West Coast of the South Island for sure! The road there is the destination with everything so close. This is why we love Caravan life. You can park up in places like Gentle Annie on the Mokihinui river or down in Fox Glacier for a few days and then go exploring. My biggest tip for the coast is to stop! Just stop every time you see a lookout or something random stop. Even the bars fly slow on the coast, so should you.  

Tell us something we won’t know about your Jayco? 

Sophie: What can I tell you… Did you know the JRV has a full bathroom set up? There are three seats up front, a bathroom with shower and toilet, a full kitchen with gas cookers, a fridge, storage, and handy living space at the back, transforming into a bedroom. The back doors open and pin back, which is epic when you have uninterrupted sunrise views to sip your coffee with. We often get asked what’s inside our Jayco… to which I instantly invite people for a little walk-through tour. 

Kyle: I think I already mentioned how insanely good the shower is but let me repeat it! The Outback has great outside living with a fold-down leaner and outdoor powerpoints! There is also an outside tap for washing your feet after the beach or like us in summer general outside living. We BBQ and live outside a lot in summer.

That’s a wrap on our JRV vs Caravan tour… what team are you? 

Hit the link below to explore the full Jayco New Zealand range.