Kaiteriteri, New Zealand

Well it's official, we've found our new happy place! Kaiteriteri. Located at the southern end of the Abel Tasman National Park in the South Island, New Zealand, MJ and I joined our family and friends for a week of relaxation, swimming, sunbathing, exploring and a lot of eating haha.

We took the Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton with our vehicles, drove to Riwaka (45 mins from Nelson) and checked into Fraser's Orchard. This fantastic spot sleeps roughly 20 people in a handful of cabins, with a main house that has toilets, showers, a kitchen, lounge and laundry. Pretty economical if you can get a large group to split the cost.

We opted to prepare all of our meals here, rather than eat out each day so we grocery shopped in Motueka and other than picking up a few extra bits, that was all we needed for the week.

And then we went to the beach. Little Kaiteriteri was it for us - even MJ who normally HATES sand and sea water was right at home here! Golden sands, clear water and some incredible Kiwi weather, Kaiteriteri has totally stolen our hearts (I mean look at it!) and we spent most days here.

On top of the world in Kaiteriteri. Photo Cred: us !!!!

We also did a day trip over the hill to Takaka, stopping at the Te Waikoropupū Springs in Golden Bay (free) and Wharariki Beach for a coastal walk (see MJs separate blog) to see the seal pups (also free!). Warning, it is a bloody long drive to get our there! It's also a different climate so take a jacket. Another day we had coffee at Mapua Wharf, a cool little spot that's a must see.

Photo: Hawkes Lookout, Takaka Hill with the fam

Other than an almost daily stop at the iconic Thomas Brothers Cherry and Real Fruit Ice Cream Stall in Riwaka and the purchase of a inflatable boat for MJ to use at at the beach ($15), we hardly spent a cent.

Heading back to Picton on our last day we stopped at the Pelourus Bridge Scenic Reserve, a popular spot for a swim and drove through Queen Charlotte Sound. Definitely worth stopping for photos there.

Such a beautiful part of the country, feel so blessed to have it on our doorstep.

- Kiki & MJ