Honest thoughts on New Zealand after my first visit

First time in New Zealand and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Christchurch was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best pavlova I've ever had. Bay of Islands was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: remote from everywhere adds flight costs, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: world-class adventure sports, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.