AUSTRALIA & New Zealand
Auckland
New Zealand has so many tracks and a few are on my bucket list, but this was a different kind of trip. Having said that, I did manage to find a few child friendly hikes.
Our first adventure took us to the top of one of Auckland’s most iconic volcanic cones - Mount Eden. It’s a relatively quick hike with sweeping 360° views over the city, harbor, and beyond. It’s wild to think this peaceful green crater was once an actual volcano. This spot is close to downtown and a perfect mix of nature and history.
On our way back we stopped at Honey Cafe for the most amazing brunch.
We chose to stay at the Intercontinental which was attached to a mall with the most amazing food court perfect for the kids and quick dinners. With easy access to the seawall, I took advantage and enjoyed my daily morning runs.
Waiheke Island
A little slice of wine country heaven just a ferry ride away from Auckland. A day trip just wasn’t enough to explore all this incredible island has to offer.
Upon arriving on the island we hiked the short low track from the ferry terminal to Oneroa. This charming coastal destination is the main village on the island and it’s known for its stunning beaches, boutique shops, and vibrant café culture.
There are approximately 30 boutique wineries on the island, making it difficult to choose which to visit. Upon doing some research I decided to make a lunch reservation at Batch Winery.
Perched high on the hills of the Island, this place completely stole the show. From the moment we stepped onto the vineyard, it was all panoramic views, coastal breezes, and that golden island glow. We sipped our way through their small-batch wines while grazing on a next-level menu that felt like it was made to match the views.
We wrapped up the day with some sandy toes and salty air at Oneroa Beach watching the kids running wild and saoking up the sun. Waiheke Island you really know how to do it all!
Rotorua
This geothermal wonderland was like stepping into another world where the Earth breathes, bubbles, and glows.
We started with the glowworm caves, drifting through total darkness as tiny lights twinkled overhead. Quiet, surreal, and kind of magical in the best way. Photos in the caves aren’t allowed, so you will need to imagine its beauty.
Then back to the surface with bubbling mud pools blurping away and geysers blasting steam into the sky. The power and heat pouring out of the land here is unreal. You can feel it in your chest, smell it in the air and see it rising all around you.
Sydney
From morning runs on the seawall and through the botanical gardens, to golden hour glows by the Opera House, every moment felt like a postcard came to life. Whether we were wandering through The Rocks, catching a ferry to Manly, or just people-watching at Circular Quay with gelato in hand, this city never missed a beat.
It’s the perfect mix of buzzing city life and laid-back beach culture. One minute you're strolling through a trendy laneway café, and the next you're barefoot in the sand at Bondi, soaking up the sun like a local. Sydney, you’ve officially made the “favourites” list.
A Surfers Paradise
The Gold Coast is definitely a surfer’s paradise. It’s this wild mix of beach bum chill and city slick glamour. You’ve got high rises glittering above golden sand, endless palm trees swaying in the breeze, surfboards parked next to sleek cafés, and an ocean that never quits.
As much as I love a big city vibe, my favourite adventures tend to be in places that make you forget time exists. Tucked between lush headlands and the sparkling Pacific, Currumbin Alley is that kind of place. A quiet hidden gem that is peaceful, yet still a surfers paradise. Soft rolling waves for the cruisers, powerful sets around the corner for the pros, and golden sand for everyone in between.
Loved our lunch at Tommy’s Italian! This hidden gem offers wood fired pizzas, handmade pasta, creamy burrata and the best Sangria all with sweeping ocean views.
Since the day is never complete without a visit to the beach, we spent the afternoon wadding in the water and watching the local kids trade their classrooms for waves. Nothing says “Gold Coast childhood” like racing down to the beach after the bell rings with boards under arms, sandy feet, and huge smiles. Pure magic!
Noosa Heads
This little slice of coastal heaven has completely stolen my heart — honestly, it might just be better than Maui!
We kicked off the day with a hike through Noosa National Park — the Hells Gates Tanglewood Track Loop had everything from rugged cliffs, crashing waves and hidden lookout points to lush rainforest trails. Breakfast at Aromas was the perfect reset — Parisian café vibes with beach-town charm. The coffee was so good it deserved a moment of silence and I’m still dreaming about the coconut yogurt, fresh fruit and granola combo.
Sunny afternoons were for sinking into a good book at Main Beach while the kids hit the waves, bodyboarding like total pros. Our dinner at Bistro C was definitely my fav. The restaurant offers breathtaking views of Laguna Bay that perfectly complement its award-winning cuisine.
Even the rainy days brought their own kind of magic — strolling down Hastings Street, ducking in and out of shops, and somehow buying things we didn’t need.
Places like these leave you with the kind of memories that last long after the tan lines fade. Noosa we will definitely be back!
