Our next stop around the globe was a land famous for its 'Middle-earth', 'Orcs' and 'Hobbits', New Zealand; a country with an abundance of natural beauty, adrenaline junkies and 'Kiwi' pride.

Our first taste of New Zealand was at the wild and wonderful Rugby Sevens tournament in Wellington. Considering the national love of this sport, we were surprised at the lack of actual spectators amongst the 30,000-plus crowd.

This yearly 'party' event is not about watching rugby, but instead to push the boundaries with the most outrageous fancy dress costumes. From walking 'whoopi-cushions' to life-size 'Carebears', you name it and it was probably there.

Our somewhat dismal attempts at patriotism with our England flags painted on our faces received a combination of jeers', disdain and pity.

The next four weeks were spent exploring the north and south island in a very cramped, but cosy, campervan. The sheer vastness of the untouched countryside is by far the most beautiful and breathtaking either of us has ever encountered.

There are few roads in New Zealand so there is no fear of getting lost; the only concern is keeping the petrol tank full as you can drive for well over an hour with not so much as a passing car, let alone a village or town.

It can also be eerie at times, with little else than quiet hamlets and small villages, not unlike Bascote and Burton Green, to stop at. You can certainly kiss "goodbye" to the refuge of a local pub to quench your thirst.

We spent the majority of our time getting as much 'Kiwi' culture as possible. We frequented many a winery, took part in a 'Maori' cultural experience, soothed our tired limbs in hot pools, visited a seal colony, rode 'western style' on a river horse trek, chattered our teeth in an 'Ice-bar' and 'Zorbed' down a hill (rolled down a hill in a giant inflatable ball).

New Zealand is certainly a land of plenty, for everyone, except the beach and shopping types. But it really is a must-see for all nature lovers, those craving adrenaline overloads and Lord of the Rings fanatics… you never know, if you're really lucky you may even spot Bilbo Baggins himself.

q If you are going on a trip, let us know the blog address.