We just got back from an epic trip to New Zealand’s South Island. The island is overflowing with beautiful scenery, a treasure trove of inspiration for an artist, and perfect for two explorers. I left feeling so inspired and brought back with me lots of little sketches and tons of photography to share with you. So, if you don’t mind, I’ll get right to it!

“There is nothing like looking, if you want to find something. You certainly usually find something, if you look, but it is not always quite the something you were after.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit


 

DAY 1 – A Drive from Christchurch to Kaihoka Lakes near Golden Bay.

Anson driving

Anson was the one to drive for most of this trip.

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Our home on wheels, the camper van, complete with a convenient shower and toilet.

Inside

An inside view traveling down one of the only 3 lane roadways we encountered in NZ.

Below, more views of our drive north.

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We arrived at our final destination, a cottage on the coast, well after dark. It wasn’t until the next day that we got any photos of it during the day. We did, however, spend some time photographing it by the light of a full moon. We also had a little adventure walking down to the ocean without any flashlights through pastures filled with sleeping sheep. Here are some of my favorites from the evening.

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Naomi VanDoren

Author Naomi VanDoren

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