This entry is just a small one to get a pin on our map as we only arrived back in Auckland in the evening, slept and headed straight to the airport, but we'll use this to say our thank yous and goodbyes...
 
Considering New Zealand was never part of the original plan and neither of us was particularly bothered about going there, it's crazy to think it now ranks as one of the best parts of our entire year away!
 
The scenery on both islands totally exceeded our expectations as it's absolutely spectacular, its almost so picturesque that words just don't do it justice and it can only really be fully appreciated by seeing it with your own eyes . Also we both had so many new experiences, many of which are unique to this part of the world and some which really tested us and pushed us to the limit going way out of our comfort zone. These include bone carving, helihiking on a glacier, skydiving the most scenic tandem dive in the world, leaping off a 134m Bungy, relaxing in a natural hot springs and a geothermal mud bath, abseiling 110ft down pitch black holes, tubing and caving through some of the world's oldest caves... It's been incredible!
 
But the trip would not have been the same if we hadn't had such wonderful people to share all of those experiences with. From the moment we landed, the group of strangers we met on the Stray bus have become very special friends. There were times when the weather was so bad and if it had been just the two of us things would have been pretty boring, but with these people around no matter what situation we were in or where we were, we always had fun and laughs. Some of you we spent over two weeks with, others just a few days, but we can't thank each and every one of you enough for making New Zealand such a fantastic journey!
 
So, to our Stray family, we say Kia Ora and we can't wait to see you all again soon wherever in the world that may be! xXx