A few numbers and our lessons from the North

One last post before we lay our New Zealand North Island journey to rest (until I make the photo book).

Those of you who know Ian well will know that he loves numbers and data. So here is our data for the last 15 days …

• Countries visited - 1
• Islands visited - 1
• Kilometres driven - 2,628
• Steps walked - 212,469 which is approximately 169 km
• Photos taken - 5,358
• Adventure Labs completed - 24
• Geocaches found - 12
• Modes of transport - Plane x3, Car x1, Boat x2, Ferry x2, Furnicular Railway x3, Shuttle Bus x2, Taxi x2 Feet (see above)
• Hotels stayed at  - 9
• Libraries visited - 4
• Kiwis seen - 2
• Times car lost - 1

Lessons Learnt

1. New Zealand is a great place to visit. Beautiful scenery, friendly people, rich history, amazing experiences.

2. Learn the culture and history as early as possible on your trip as it sets the tone of your adventure.

3. Make the most of every moment. You can rest when you get home.

4. Where possible … have meals on the the go. We ate muesli bars, nut bars, bananas and apples for breakfast. Lunches were also mostly on the go with bakeries having pre-made sandwiches, rolls, pies and even home made egg and bacon pie to have at a scenic spot during your day.

5. Adventure Labs are a fabulous way to take you to interesting places that you may not otherwise visit. They provide a wonderful opportunity to learn something at each stop as you complete the lab.

6. Don’t be afraid to try something new even if you don’t always finish it. We tried to climb to the top of Toka Toka Peak but couldn’t quite get to the top … but we gave it a good rip. NB. this does not apply to dangerous things like bungy jumping!

7. Be prepared and willing to take the road less travelled. Our journey from Whakatane to Gisborne would not be on most tour itineraries but was worth every moment of the journey.

8. When planning your trip use tour brochures, travel guides, the internet and your travel agent to make it YOUR journey.

9. Invest in some luggage label/straps that not only help you find your luggage quickly but set the tone of your dreams.

10. Record your journey as you travel. To aid your memory of the experience and to be able to share your adventures with family and friends.