New Zealand Travel Blog

Downside Up New Zealand Blog
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Welcome to our New Zealand Travel Blog DownsideUP

This blog is dedicated to inform and inspire you on all things to do with New Zealand..

Actually we write posts on anything that’s of interest in the South Pacific (our home) DownsideUP was started in 2008, to help people just like you, with planning the perfect NZ Self Driving experience.  

How to Plan Your New Zealand Honeymoon

Feeling on top of the world on a New Zealand honeymoon
David Mckenzie
By
David Mckenzie
Post date
20 November 2023

How to Plan Your (Perfect) New Zealand Honeymoon

 

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David Mckenzie
By
David Mckenzie
Post date

20 November 2023

Great Lakes of the South Island

Yours truly John Dunne standing at Hooker Lake on the Hooker Valley track with Mt Cook behind us.
John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne
Post date
16 November 2023
These are the best ‘must see’ lake areas on New Zealand’s stunning South Island. The recommendations are based on my widespread wanderlust and intimate local knowledge. This exclusive and sought after guide is unique, informative and very easy to follow. As my poet friend Claver Esmond says, “Contentment by quiet waters is one of this country’s great riches”.
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John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne
Post date

16 November 2023

The Top 9 Destinations for Your New Zealand Honeymoon

honeymoon on the west coast at the Hokitika Gorge
David Mckenzie
By
David Mckenzie
Post date
8 November 2023

A New Zealand honeymoon is bound to deliver on breathtaking locations and unforgettable experiences no matter where you go. Still, to be sure that you make the very most of your very special trip, here are some suggestions for the best destinations to visit on a New Zealand honeymoon.

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David Mckenzie
By
David Mckenzie
Post date

8 November 2023

South Island Honeymoon Itinerary

Lauren & Phil on honeymoon West Coast South Island
David Mckenzie
By
David Mckenzie
Post date
8 November 2023

Whether it’s an unforgettable, adrenaline-fuelled experience to share together, or simply a quiet, cozy romantic hideaway beneath the stars or in the wilderness you’re looking for, the South Island of New Zealand is littered with incredible honeymoon possibilities.

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David Mckenzie
By
David Mckenzie
Post date

8 November 2023

South Island Travel Map

South Island Travel Map with points of interest
Suzie
By
Suzie Thorp
Post date
26 October 2023

Our travel designers are experts in making the most of your time in the beautiful South Island. With over 20 years of experience creating trips of a lifetime, contact us - our experienced team will take the stress out of the planning so you can focus on enjoying every minute of your time in New Zealand.

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Suzie
By
Suzie Thorp
Post date

26 October 2023

Our Carbon OffSett Programme that keeps New Zealand Beautiful

Tree Planting
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
Post date
23 October 2023
We will respect today’s environment while creating a better one for tomorrow. Reducing the impact of our activities on global environmental issues such as climate change, ozone destruction, resource depletion, and loss of habitat and biodiversity.  Read about how we are Carbon offsetting and at the same time making New Zealand more Beautiful! 
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Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
Post date

23 October 2023

First Light Travel Tripadvisor Award

Every year, we award travelers’ favorite destinations, hotels, restaurants, and things to do around the world, based on reviews and ratings collected over the past 12 months. So our Travelers’ Choice winners are decided by you: real travelers from all over, sharing real opinions and stories.
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
Post date
2 August 2023

What are the Travelers’ Choice Awards?

The Travelers' Choice awards honor travelers' favorite destinations, hotels, restaurants, things to do, and beyond, based on the reviews and opinions collected from travelers and diners around the world on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period. 

How are winners selected? 

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Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
Post date

2 August 2023

Pine Tree's - whats the problem?

wilding pines
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
Post date
15 June 2023
Without large scale funding and control within twenty years 20% of New Zealand will be covered with wilding pines. As wilding conifers spread across our landscapes they: reduce the numbers of plants and animals that are only found in New Zealand.
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Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
Post date

15 June 2023

21 Day South Island Itinerary

Abel Tasman Cleopatras Pool
John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne
Post date
1 May 2023
You've heard of Around the World in 80 days, well this is Around the South Island in 21! It's a pretty good analogy, as New Zealand is said to be the best features of a bunch of countries all rolled into 1 and that's what you'll see here. Majestic mountains, stunning lakes, wild waterfalls, deep fjords, abundant wildlife, huge forests, mighty glaciers and friendly locals everywhere.
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John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne
Post date

1 May 2023

The Classic 14 Day South Island Explorer

Doubtful Sound Fiordland
John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne
Post date
1 May 2023
Gidday, welcome, get ready and be warned ! You're about to embark on a love affair that'll mark you forever. They say New Zealand is a bunch of countries in one and they're right. You're about to be torn in all directions as your senses rush to keep up with the incredible experiences the South Island Explorer has to offer on a 14 Day Vacation.
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John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne
Post date

1 May 2023

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