Kiwi experience in north island

After extensive research around the North New Zealand, the effort has eventually been paid off.
In order to escape the Australia summer time in November, me and boyfie had an unforgettable road trip in North New Zealand.

Our itinerary covering some of the very best attractions, destinations, scenery and adventure.
Instead of a clockwise route where most visitors previously had done, our time in the North began from Waitomo, down to National Park, up again to Taupo, to Rotorua, to Mata-mata, and our last stop to Coromandel Peninsula before heading back to Auckland.

Ezi car rental was our preferred mode of transportation for our 7-day road trip.

A few of my highlights were visiting The Hobbiton movie set, Huka Falls, Cathedral Cove, Hamilton Garden and so on.

BUT, I would highly recommend Tongariro Alpine Crossing trek, which i have labelled it as the most challenging and tiring 8-hour hike yet in exchange for its unique landscape and spectacular view.

ENJOY THE POST! XOXO

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Huka Falls

The Hobbiton Movie Set

Cathedral Cove

Thank you North New Zealand for offering us the treasures of each town, city, landscape in our short 7 days stay.

Youtube video for my North New Zealand Trip:

7 days in North New Zeland | 2016

Our budget for 7 days for 2 persons sharing the car and accommodation: 

Flight tickets = NZD  800

Car rental = NZD 260

Accommodation ( Airbnb)= NZD 364

Activities (entry fees)= NZD 840

Food, petrol, expenses= NZD 875

Total for 2 persons= NZD 3,139

Road trip in Melbourne

As everyone knows Melbourne is known as one of the busiest, bustling city out of many countries. This is my second time travelling to this city but instead of walking down to the streets in city, or coffee catching-up at some lane way cafes; this time me and my mates have considered to experience on a self drive tour from mountain to sea, grassland to sunset; explore the nature and diverse landscapes where Melbourne has offered.

It is a self-drive road trip from east to west, cost of car and petrol are split between 6 of us.
(Car rental = AUD287 for three days)

Day 1: 

Melbourne city to Mornington Peninsula, Philip Island(1 hr 30 mins; 66km)

Best known for its beaches and scenic views, Mornington is located at south-east of Melbourne. Along its winding mountain path to Mornington, the views out of the window were breathtaking. We stopped at one of the lookout for half hour to explore along the bayside broad walk with strong breeze that would definitely messed up your hair. 

Mornington meets around with its unique visiting place such as Cape Shrank Lighthouse, located at the cliff top. 

We left Mornington to have dinner before we headed up to Philip Island at night. Philip Island is highlighted for its penguin parade. We opt for the Penguin Plus ticket, it is freezing cold standing at the platform while waiting for those penguins, but did no regret to wait for 15 minutes. We got the chance to get an up-close view of the little clumsy penguins waddled up to the shore. Absolutely an amazing spectacle and well worth to wait!

Source: Philip Island Official Page 

General view: $25.10 (Beachfront viewing stands )
Penguin Plus: $47.20 ( Exclusive 180 degree view)
Underground viewing: $60.00 (Indoor and underground viewing window )

Tips: #1: I recommend you to get the Penguin Plus or Underground viewing ticket (especially during     winter), more penguins come to this zone and up-close viewing is worth the price!
         #2: Move forwards as possible to get the front seat at the Penguin Plus.
         #3: Walk back along the walkway and follow the last group of little penguins walk back to their shelter!

(Unfortunately, no photo and video taking are allowed)

Day 2: Melbourne City to Great Ocean Road
(3 hr 00 min; 240km)

The Great Ocean Road is a must visit scenic spot in your list to Melbourne. Woke up before the sunrise to fuel up the car and get our breakfast at Winter's Cafe (4.7 out of 5 and known as one of the best cafe in Geelong, Melbourne) before heading off on our 3-hour drive to Great Ocean Road.

From straight highway to winding mountains, from drizzle to rain, rain to drizzle. The weather is unexpected and unstable but the fact we still surrounded by those amazing landscapes and countless lookouts. 

First stop at Bells Beach, home of the Rip Curl Easter Pro, deriving its name as the world's annual longest-running surfing competition. 

It was 12 degree along with the strong wind blown, the day is noised by the nature; listened to the sound of the ocean. The wave gently lapping, beating against the coastline, along with the wind whistler on my ears. It is such a magical place, i was amazed by the nature and creation.

Rainbow formed after the rain. 7 colours are clear, no one is missing.

Day 3: Melbourne City to Yarra Valley
(1 hr 8 min; 66km)

Escape to the short distance gateway to Yarra Valley. The thing about Yarra Valley is not only their beautiful landscapes, but their wine is a treat for wine lovers. If sipping a glass of wine is not your type, then Yarra Valley Chocolaterie is a place to be! They have offered various types of chocolate samplings, sells, and souvenirs in the shop. 

Soaking in Yarra Valley for half day, returned to Melbourne feeling completely satisfied!

YAY <3 Those who made this trip from dullness to wonderful !

Hope this would inspire you ! Let my green tea ice cream to end my words=)

Photos taken with Canon 550D, iPhone 6 and Gopro Hero 4.