Abdinz

As I celebrated my first anniversary in New Zealand late this December, I couldn’t help but look back on a year of incredible moments, many of them spent on the open road. This past year has been a whirlwind of discovery, growth, and quiet awe at the beauty of this country. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that New Zealand’s roads don’t just connect places—they create stories.

I still remember my first road trip vividly. It was a late-summer weekend, and the urge to explore had been growing steadily since my arrival. Armed with a modest secondhand car, snacks for the journey, and a Spotify playlist that doubled as a soundtrack to my new life, I set out from Hamilton with Mount Maunganui as my destination. What I didn’t expect was how much the journey itself would shape the day.

The Road That Became a Lesson

Driving through the Waikato countryside was like stepping into a painting. The rolling green hills seemed to stretch endlessly, with cows and sheep grazing lazily in the distance. As a newcomer, I was fascinated by every detail—the meandering roads, the occasional one-lane bridges, and the way the sunlight seemed to make everything glow. It felt like the road wasn’t just leading me to the beach; it was teaching me to slow down, to notice, to breathe.

One of the most memorable moments from that drive was crossing my first single-lane bridge. I’ll admit, I hesitated at first, unsure of how it worked. But a friendly wave from an oncoming driver eased my nerves, and I made it across with a mix of relief and accomplishment. It may seem like a small thing, but that moment marked the beginning of my journey into understanding how things work here—not just on the road, but in life.

Mount Maunganui and the Magic of the Sea

By the time I reached Mount Maunganui, the day had turned into one of those picture-perfect summer afternoons. The beach was alive with activity—surfers chasing waves, families building sandcastles, and locals enjoying fish and chips by the shore. Walking along the golden sands, with the sound of waves crashing and the salty breeze brushing against my face, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. Watching the sun set over the water that evening, painting the horizon with strokes of orange and pink, I realized I had found a little piece of home in this faraway land.

What One Year Has Taught Me

This past year of driving in New Zealand has been a journey in more ways than one. It’s taught me to embrace the unexpected, to prepare for the unpredictable, and to find joy in the simplest of moments. Whether it’s navigating a winding rural road, waiting patiently for a herd of sheep to cross, or marveling at the beauty of a coastal sunset, I’ve learned that the journey often matters as much as the destination.

Here are a few key lessons I’ve picked up along the way:

1. Adaptability is essential. New Zealand’s roads, much like life, come with twists and turns. Be prepared to slow down, both literally and figuratively.
2. Fuel up—literally and figuratively. Before heading into rural areas or the coast, make sure your tank (and your snack stash) is full. You’ll thank yourself later.
3. Embrace the pauses. Those moments of stillness—whether it’s waiting at a single-lane bridge or pulling over to take in a view—are opportunities to connect with your surroundings.

Looking Ahead

As I step into my second year in New Zealand, I feel ready to dive deeper into this beautiful country. The roads still hold mysteries, and the destinations are endless—from Raglan’s rugged black sand beaches to the hidden gems tucked away in the Waikato countryside. Every journey feels like an invitation to discover more, not just about New Zealand, but about myself.

To anyone new to driving in New Zealand or considering a road trip, my advice is simple: take your time. The roads will surprise you, the scenery will amaze you, and the experience will stay with you long after the journey ends.

Have you had an unforgettable road trip moment? Or is there a spot in New Zealand that holds a special place in your heart? I’d love to hear your story—after all, the best journeys are the ones we share.