We decided to make the most of our trip to New Zealand by entrusting a tour company to do all the hard work. We chose the Kakapo tour by MoaTrek and were not disappointed. Our guide and driver, Matt had a recall that would not have been out of place on ‘MasterMind’ and there was an emphasis on Maori culture throughout. We covered both Islands – over 5,000 miles – with some long days in our little bus but it gave us a great insight into the whole of New Zealand and even included a few meals in New Zealand homesteads.

First off though, a stop over in Singapore to meet up and stay with our friends Helena and David. Unfortunately David had to make an unexpected visit to the UK so it fell upon Helena to keep us entertained for two days and juggle that with her work.