New Zealand Travel Blog

Downside Up New Zealand Blog

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.  

Lauren & Phil on honeymoon West Coast South Island
David Mckenzie
By
David Mckenzie

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.

David Mckenzie
By
David Mckenzie

QEII National Trust protective covenants
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
In 2015, Robert Lange, in an extraordinary act of generosity, placed four QEII National Trust protective covenants, over 90% of his land, which comprises four former high-country sheep stations between Wanaka and Arrowtown this is now collectively known as Mahu Whenua.
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey

South Island Travel Map with points of interest
Suzie
By
Suzie Thorp

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.

Suzie
By
Suzie Thorp

First Light Travel October Tree Plant
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
This was a fantastic day out with great weather and plenty of happy faces! The event saw an impressive turnout of volunteers, all eager to make a difference. In just over two hours, 2,500 trees were planted, transforming the landscape and contributing significantly to the local ecosystem. The spirit of camaraderie was palpable as people of all ages worked together.
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey

Tree Planting
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
We're dedicated to preserving New Zealand's environment for future generations by reducing our impact today. Recognizing global concerns like climate change and biodiversity loss, we work to minimize our footprint and that of our guests. Discover how we're offsetting carbon emissions and contributing to New Zealand's natural beauty!
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey

First Light Travel wins 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers Choice Award
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey

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. 

Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey

Abel Tasman Cleopatras Pool
John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne
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.
John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne

Doubtful Sound Fiordland
John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne
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.
John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne

First Light Travel Tree Planting April 2023
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey
Last Friday, armed with gardening gloves and good intentions, our office team stepped away from their desks and onto a tree planting site on Coronet Face (just below one of our ski fields - Coronet Peak) to help plant 6000 juvenile beech trees in support of our local volunteer organisation, Arrowtown Choppers.
Brent Narbey
By
Brent Narbey

Kayaking the Abel Tasman National Park
John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne
Discover the unparalleled beauty of New Zealand's South Island on a self-drive vacation. From the towering peaks of the Southern Alps to the crystal-clear waters of Milford Sound, this itinerary will take you to the heart of the country's most iconic sights. Experience the charm of quaint towns and the thrill of outdoor adventures, all while surrounded by some of the world's most spectacular landscapes.
John Dunne - broadcaster, writer, skibum, sailor
By
John Dunne

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