Travel and Adventure Resources
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Accommodation
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Flights
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Transport
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Internet Security
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Gear
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Guided Tours
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Food
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Books
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Travel Insurance
〰️ Accommodation 〰️ Flights 〰️ Transport 〰️ Internet Security 〰️ Gear 〰️ Guided Tours 〰️ Food 〰️ Books 〰️ Travel Insurance
Resources for Your Travel and Adventures
I’m asked daily for personalised travel and gear advise including what clothes I’m wearing, which are the best shoes for a long hike, what’s the best backpack or tent, where to stay and how to book accommodation, flights and activities.
This page provides the answers to many of those questions with practical advise for planning and gearing up for your own adventures as well as companies I use while travelling as a full time travel content creator or digital nomad.
Bookmark this page as I will develop it further as I continue to learn and test new goods and services for my own use.
If they’re listed here, it means I’ve found them fit for purpose, my purpose that is and you’ll need to do your own research as to whether they’ll suit your situation.
Disclosure: My content is reader-supported, which means I may earn a small commission from links on Freewheeling Kiwi’s Assets if you make a purchase and at no cost to you. This is a way to support me so that I can keep sharing content and stories. Thanks in advance for your support.
Contents
Accommodation
Book a Bach
If you’re looking to book a bach for your next holiday, Bookabach is the ideal choice. Bookabach connects homeowners with over 2 million rental properties to travellers looking for holiday accommodation. Find any rental type you can think of, including cabins, lodges, apartments, chateaus and more, all in a range of desirable destinations across the globe. To plan your trip and find your ideal holiday home, all you have to do is search for properties in your destination and securely book your next accommodation. You can also filter searches to find specific amenities, such as family-friendly properties or luxury homes.
Hamilton Island
Part of the Whitsundays, and in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is one of Australia’s most spectacular and sought-after holiday destinations. On a holiday to Hamilton Island, you'll be surrounded by pristine white beaches, and a kaleidoscope of coral and marine life. Hamilton Island is a perfect base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and world-famous Whitehaven Beach
Timber Trail Lodge
In the heart of the Timber Trail, Pureora, New Zealand. Package deals offered for the Timber Trail, shuttle, bike and lodge accommodation. Great fun to incorporate into your Te Araroa walk.
Trivago New Zealand
Trivago’s hotel search allows users to compare hotel prices in just a few clicks from hundreds of booking sites for more than 5.0 million hotels and other types of accommodation in over 190 countries
Expedia
Expedia offers travellers a wide selection of accommodation, flights, package, activities and travel services at attractive rates. With hundreds of thousands of accommodation options worldwide and comprehensive choices of flights inventory made readily available on Expedia.co.nz, travellers can easily plan and book their trip
Activities and Tours
Himalayan Recreation and Trekking - Freewheeling Kiwi Preferred Partner
Highlights: Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Trek through scenic Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar. Explore the vibrant Buddhist culture and visit ancient monasteries along the trail. Witness stunning panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other towering peaks. Hike to Kala Patthar for a close-up view of Mount Everest and a breathtaking sunrise. Experience the unique Sherpa hospitality and learn about their traditions and lifestyle. Enjoy the beauty of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights: A scenic flight to one of the highest-altitude airports in Lukla Trace steps to the Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Witness the majestic sights of the diverse range of mountains. Introduce yourself to the Sherpa culture and lifestyle. Walk in the wilderness of the Himalayas.Traverse through Sagarmatha National Park.
Highlights: Visit the sacred Hindu site, Pashupatinath temple. Explore ancient art, architecture, and history at Kathmandu Durbar Square. Witness a spectacular view of Kathmandu Valley from Swayambhunath Stupa. Visit the largest stupa in South Asia, the Boudhanath stupa. Explore four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal.Transportation, Transfers and Shuttles
Blazing Paddles Outdoors
Experience of a lifetime in the remote wilderness, the stunning Ruapehu District. Whanganui River Canoes, Jetboats, Helicopter.
Expedia
Expedia offers travellers a wide selection of accommodation, flights, package, activities and travel services at attractive rates. With hundreds of thousands of accommodation options worldwide and comprehensive choices of flights inventory made readily available on Expedia.co.nz, travellers can easily plan and book their trip
Get Your Guide
Unforgettable travel experiences. No matter where your travels take you, Get Your Guide offers the best way to connect with your destination. Make memories all over the globe with our locally-vetted, expertly-curated experiences. From must-see iconic attractions to unexpected under-the-radar gems, we have something for everyone.
Timber Trail Shuttle and Bike Hire / Timber Trail Lodge
In the heart of the Timber Trail, Pureora, New Zealand
Package deals offered for the Timber Trail, shuttle, bike and lodge accommodation.
At Pure Milford we share the beauty of Piopiotahi / Milford Sound through daily scenic cruises reached by private car, glass roof coach, fixed-wing plane or helicopter. We have two of the most spectacular vessels on offer, including the only glass roof boat in the fiord. The glass roof feature allows customers to enjoy the incredible scenery in full from anywhere on board no matter the weather (and it can RAIN at Milford; our fiord is surrounded by native rainforest!). Our boats have been finished to the highest standard with features such as HD cameras, spacious indoor and outdoor viewing decks, licensed food and beverage outlets and more. Our crew are exceptional, and customer experience is at the core our business which is reflected in endless 5* reviews. Be part of the magic of Pure Milford!
Bags and Accessories
My Osprey Backpack travelled with me the length of New Zealand when walking 3000 km on Te Araroa. Andrew was so impressed with its performance, he stopped at the halfway point in Wellington and bought one as well.
Books
Lonely Planet
Recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences. Craft your perfect itinerary with our unique recommendations. Travel. Coffee Table Books. Language Guides. Travel Guides. Trip Itineraries. Travel Gifts. Free Shipping. Travel Books and Advice.
Lonely Planet
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Lonely Planet New Zealand
Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime to New Zealand. Discover popular and off the beaten track experiences from relaxing in the calm waters of idyllic Maitai Bay, to exploring Waipoua Forest with Māori guides, and discovering craft beer from around the country on the Auckland Beer Mile.
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Best Day Walks New Zealand
Lonely Planet's Best Day Walks New Zealand is your passport to 60 easy escapes into nature. Stretch your legs outside the city by picking a hike that works for you, from a few hours to a full day, from easy to hard. Climb ancient volcanoes, view amazing vistas, and scale tall mountains. Get to the heart of New Zealand and begin your journey now!
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Best Bike Rides New Zealand
Lonely Planet's Best Bike Rides New Zealand is your passport to 38 day trips on two wheels. Use pedal power to see a destination through a new lens by picking a ride that works for you, from just a couple of hours to a full day, from easy to hard. From rail trails to coastal pathways we cover the country with easy-to-follow trails for cyclists and E-bike riders.
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Best Road Trips New Zealand
Discover the freedom of the open road with Lonely Planet's New Zealand's Best Road Trips. This trusted travel companion features 25 amazing drives, from 3-day escapes to 2-week adventures. Cruise Bay of Islands, meander to vineyard restaurants on Waiheke Island, and spot whales off Kaikoura Coast. Get to New Zealand, rent a car, and hit the road!
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Lonely Planet Australia
Inside Lonely Planet’s Australia Travel Guide: Up-to-date information - all businesses were rechecked before publication to ensure they are still open after 2020’s COVID-19 outbreak. NEW top experiences feature - a visually inspiring collection of Australia’s best experiences and where to have them. What's NEW feature taps into cultural trends and helps you find fresh ideas and cool new areas
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Lonely Planet Nepal
Lonely Planet's Nepal is our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the country has to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences. Explore the temples of Kathmandu, search for tigers in Chitwan National Park, and trek in the shadow of some of the highest mountains; all with your trusted travel companion.
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Lonely Planet Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei
Lonely Planet's Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei is our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the region has to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences. Trek through the rainforest to see flying lizards, eat fresh fish with coconut spice at markets; all with your trusted travel companion.
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Lonely Planet Hong Kong
Lonely Plant Hong Kong: Top experiences feature - a visually inspiring collection of Hong Kong’s best experiences and where to have them. What's new feature taps into cultural trends and helps you find fresh ideas and cool new areas. NEW pull-out, passport-size 'Just Landed' card with wi-fi, ATM and transport info - all you need for a smooth journey from airport to hotel. Planning tools for family travellers - where to go, how to save money, plus fun stuff just for kids
In January 2015 Mark Watson left sunny Cape Reinga to walk and photograph the length of Te Araroa. The journey would take him nearly six months, through constantly changing landscape, geology, and many different kinds of forest.
Paper Plus
New Zealand's largest retailer of books, stationery, magazines and cards, with 100+ stores nationwide.
Insta 360
Insta 360 GO 3
Standard Bundle includes 1x GO 3S (64GB), 1x Lens Guard (pre-installed on the lens by default), 1x Action Pod, 1x Magnet Pendant, 1x Pivot Stand and 1x Easy Clip
Insta 360 X4
Standard Bundle includes 1x Insta360 X4 and 1x Standard Lens Guards, does not include memory card.
Cameras and Accessories
Clothing, Footwear and Accessories
Creepers - Toe Socks - Discount Code
Toe Socks for Men and Women - Multi-day hikes without blisters, hot spots and discomfort? Dry, low friction and ultrasoft.
Use this link to receive 10% off your next purchase of Creepers Socks
MacPac
MacPac is your go-to outdoor store for premium outdoor clothing, equipment, and footwear. Shop your favourite outdoor gear and sportswear here!
Women’s Clothing, Footwear and Accessories
Marmot - Hiking clothes and rainwear, tents and sleeping bags - Discount Code
Use this Code FREEWHEELINGKIWIFRIENDS at checkout to receive 15% off full priced items, available for a limited time. https://marmotnz.co.nz/
Marmot Tungsten Ultra Light 1 Person Tent
Marmot Tungsten Ultra Light 2 Person Tent
Merrell - Shoes, clothing and accessories - Discount Code
Since 1984, Merrell NZ have provided comfortable, resilient, and purpose-designed footwear to the feet of outdoor enthusiasts all over New Zealand. In 2008 they also introduced Merrell's technical apparel to New Zealand - offering garments which get people outside, whatever the weather.
Shop Merrell NZ’s ever-growing eco-friendly footwear, clothing and accessories and make your steps lighter on the planet.
Use this Code FREEWHEELINGKIWI15 at checkout to receive 15% off full https://www.merrell.co.nz/
I’ve since worn the Agility Peak 5 when hiking in Malaysia and Nepal and Moab Speed 2 Gore-Tex throughout New Zealand’s trails and find them all comfortable straight out of the box. Andrew has had the same experiences with Merrell’s shoes.
North Face Australia
The North Face is the world's premier supplier of authentic and technically innovative outdoor apparel, footwear and equipment.
Speedo
Superior swimwear, swimsuits and accessories designed for men, women and kids of all levels and abilities.
New Zealand Nature
New Zealand Nature is an online retailer specialising in natural fibre clothing, sheepskin footwear, homeware and lifestyle products, either made in New Zealand, designed in New Zealand or simply inspired by New Zealand’s environment, or intrinsic ‘Kiwi’ character!
Wiggle
We’re the sports retailer run by people that love sport. With a never beaten on price promise, fully tracked delivery (free above $80 orders) and local returns.
Cosmetic, Skincare, Health and Wellness
Eco Warehouse is your one-stop-online-shop for all sustainable and environment friendly products. Our goal is, to source and sell carefully selected environment-conscious products, that easily replace "regular" items in and around the house.
Health Post
Health Post is New Zealand’s favourite online supplier of natural health, skincare and household products, proudly based in Golden Bay.
Manuka honey and skincare products as pure and distinctive as the land they come from. Manuka Honey, Hive to Home™ Guaranteed. Manuka Doctor's Manuka Honey is sustainably sourced and ethically produced, R.A.W. Manuka Honey sourced from clean, green, Non-GMO remote locations in New Zealand. Our genuine Manuka Honey can be traced from Hive to Home.
By Nature Skincare
By Nature Skincare was developed with a mission to create simple and honest skincare solutions that work in harmony with your skin.
Neat Feat
Since 1993, Neat Feat has made personal care and foot care products to provide comfort and confidence from head to toe. With revolutionary products such as hand, foot, body, and facial antiperspirants, to the best-selling Foot and Heel Balm, and the all-natural Willow Wart and Skin Tag remover gel, Neat Feat helps you to feel your best.
Apple Airpods
In ear bud and in ear headphones by Apple
Electronics
Garmin inReach Mini 2 – Flame Red
TrackMe
Remote Satellite Solutions, Lone Worker Services, Satellite device connections. SPOT, inReach, Delorme, GARMIN. Sales and Hires. TrackMe Pro+. TrackMe provided my data when hiking Te Araroa
Emergency and SOS Communications
First Aid and Pharmacy
Chemist Warehouse
Chemist Warehouse continues to be at the forefront of internet pharmacy in New Zealand.
Flights
Skyscanner
Millions of cheap prices. One simple search. Compare flight rates from 1000s of airlines and online travel agents to find the cheapest flight tickets to all major destinations.
Expedia
Expedia offers travellers a wide selection of accommodation, flights, package, activities and travel services at attractive rates. With hundreds of thousands of accommodation options worldwide and comprehensive choices of flights inventory made readily available on Expedia.co.nz, travellers can easily plan and book their trip
Food, Diet and Nutrition
Manuka honey and skincare products as pure and distinctive as the land they come from. Manuka Honey, Hive to Home™ Guaranteed. Manuka Doctor's Manuka Honey is sustainably sourced and ethically produced, R.A.W. Manuka Honey sourced from clean, green, Non-GMO remote locations in New Zealand. Our genuine Manuka Honey can be traced from Hive to Home.
Radix Nutrition
Ready made meals, breakfast and proteins, ideal for hiking.
Use this link to receive 15% off your next purchase of Radix Nutrition.
or code FREEWHEELINGKIWI15 at checkout (New Zealand Delivery)
Use this link to receive 15% off your next purchase of Radix Nutrition
or code FREEWHEELINGKIWI15 at checkout (Australia Delivery)
Radix was our preferred trail meal when hiking the 3000 kilometre Te Araroa Trail and we were sure to call in to visit them on our way past.
Campers Pantry - Discount Code
Home style comfort food, trail ready.
Use this link to receive 10% off your next purchase of Campers Pantry
or code FREEWHEELINGKIWI at checkout.
Gifts
Find the perfect gift for anyone.
Gifting starts here. Welcome to New Zealand's Premier Gift Marketplace. We have taken the hassle out of finding the perfect gift by bringing them all into one place. Whether you are looking for the perfect house warming gift, an amazing birthday gift or corporate gifts for your business. The Gift Shop has you covered.
Fitness New Zealand
Fitness New Zealand is one of New Zealand’s leading independent online fitness retail stores. With leading brands like Garmin, COROS, Tailwind Nutrition, PURE Sports Nutrition and more to offer you the best possible online shopping experience, with a fantastic product range and first-class service 24-hours of every day.
Health and Wellness
Trusted House Sitters
The Freedom to Travel - Discover free and unique homestays around the world, in exchange for caring for adorable pets.
House and Pet Sitters
Express VPN
Express VPN is the world’s largest provider of VPN services, which enables users to protect their privacy and security online with just a few clicks.
Tripsim by SYD - Discount Code
E-SIM provider for Data. Tripsim helps travellers stay connected in over 190 destinations globally.
Use this link to receive 10% off your Tripism purchase https://tripsim.com.au/FREEWHEELINGKIWI or code FREEWHEELINGKIWI at checkout
Airalo
E-SIM provider for Data. Stay connected, wherever you travel, at affordable rates.
To receive US $3 off your Airalo purchase use my code SHARON9327 at checkout https://www.airalo.com/
Mobile Services and Telecommunications
Music
Epidemic Sound
Epidemic Sound exists so that music can flow freely and fairly between creators around the world. Empowering creativity is at the heart of who we are. Epidemic Sound enriches the creative process, enabling content creators to elevate their content and engage their audiences with our ever-expanding catalog of world-class music and sound effects. We collaborate closely with our community of content creators and music creators to help them grow.
Outdoors, Sports and Recreation
Fire Maple Discount Code
Shop and explore Fire Maple's range of internationally recognised and award-winning camping stoves, backpacking cook systems, and accessories.
Use this link to receive 10% off your next Fire Maple Purchase
or Code KIWI10
Leki Poles
The Lhasa AS (Antishock) is a women's specific version of our unisex model, Legacy. Featuring Ultralite, high-tensile strength Aluminum shafts, and Evocon COR-TEC grips, Lhasa also includes the next generation Speed Lock plus to quickly and securely adjust the pole length between 90 -125cm. The Dynamic Suspension System (DSS) antishock feature reduces peak pole impacts by as much as 40% to protect muscles, joints, and ligaments
Marmot - Discount Code
Clothes, Rainwear, Tents, Sleeping Bags
Use this Code FREEWHEELINGKIWIFRIENDS at checkout to receive 15% off full priced items, available for a limited time. https://marmotnz.co.nz/
Beaver Craft Tools
Beaver Craft Company are dedicated to providing high-quality tools for outdoor enthusiasts. Products include whittling knives, chisels, wood carving kits and accessories. Beaver Craft is a Ukrainian manufacturer of wood carving tools and bushcraft gear. Established in 2014, we set out to address the gap in the market for affordable high-quality tools for beginners and professionals.
Docks Locks Discount Code
Marine Grade Security. Trusted by Watermen and Outdoor Enthusiasts since 2002, DocksLocks offers a variety of security locks and cables for the outdoor and waterman lifestyle. From paddleboards and surfboards to kayaks, bikes and more, you can count on DocksLocks for security that is built to last.
Use this link to receive 20% off your next Docks Locks purchase or code FREEWHEELINGKIWI at checkout
Fit Geno
Our best-selling Posture Corrector, Arch Support Brace, Knee Braces, Back Braces, and Ankle Braces, are designed to relieve pain and discomfort. They are perfect for sports lovers, office workers, gamers, dancers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
At Ledlenser we create light. Even in the furthest, darkest corner of the world. As one of the world’s market leaders in LED torches and headlamps, we are downright obsessed with it. And while some believe that we already make the best lights in the world, we think we’re only at the beginning of our journey.
Outback Equipment
Over the past 7 years, Outback Equipment has expanded to supply all the big (and small) brands in the space, with hundreds of thousands of happy customers Australia-wide. We are the leading retailer for brands including Tuff Terrain, Outback Equipment, Front Runner, Rhino-Rack, MAXTRAX, Fiamma and more.
Wiggle
We’re the sports retailer run by people that love sport. With a never beaten on price promise, fully tracked delivery (free above $80 orders) and local returns.
Wild Earth is a leading retailer and distributor specialising in high-performance camping gear, hiking gear, outerwear and adventure products.
Wild Earth is not just your typical general camping or clothing store – it is fresh and exciting. An adventure within itself. Wild Earth is for all outdoor adventurers seeking great prices on quality products that won’t fail.
Hiking gear, tents, backpacks, swags, sleeping bags, hiking boots, travel gear, adventure wear, hiking stoves, lightweight performance gear, stoves, headlamps and lighting and much more!
Technology and Software
All Trails
Trail Guides and Maps for Hiking, Camping and Adventure. More tools for more adventures. With offline maps, wrong-turn alerts, and extra planning features, AllTrails+ helps you make the most of every minute outdoors. Ready to check out the best trails in New Zealand for hiking, mountain biking, climbing or other outdoor activities?
FarOut, formerly known as Guthook Guides, is the #1 app for long-distance hiking, biking and paddling with over 100 detailed guides around the world including New Zealand’s Te Araroa Trail. Plan your trip with offline maps and elevation profiles that work without wifi or cell service, even on airplane mode. Find water, campsites, and more through thousands of waypoint. Connect with friends and family using the Social Check-in feature and let them know you’re safe during your trip.
Tube Buddy
Your best friend on the road to YouTube Success. Tube Buddy offers an innovative suite of tools that consists of everything creators need to best optimise their YouTube channels, save time and ease frustrations.
Transport, Transfers, Shuttles
Save up to 70% by comparing the best car rental deals from 700+ suppliers in 10000+ locations worldwide and FREE Cancellation.
Travel Insurance
Safety Wing Insurance
Insurance for Nomads. Nomad Insurance is a global travel medical insurance that covers people from all over the world, while outside their home country. You can buy it even if you are already abroad.
World Nomads travel insurance has been designed by travellers for travellers. If you leave home without travel insurance or your policy runs out, you can buy or extend while on the road.
I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. I do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Web Hosting, Domain Names, Emails, Online Storage
Dropbox
All Your Files In One Place — Save and access your files from any device, and share them with anyone. Try Dropbox today. Join over 700 million registered users who trust Dropbox
Freeparking
Register Your Domain Name Now
Disclosure: My content is reader-supported, which means I may earn a small commission from links on Freewheeling Kiwi’s Assets if you make a purchase and at no cost to you. This is a way to support me so that I can keep sharing content and stories. Thanks in advance for your support.
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Hi and welcome to my website. I’m Sharon Evans and I’ve a passion for travel that provides adventure, challenge, nature and inspiration.
I’m a professional storyteller here and on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Threads and TikTok with many thousands of followers across my channels.
Join me as I share my authentic experiences from around the world 💚