Brewery suggestions: - Wellington is the place to go for the best breweries, beer bars and burgers in NZ (Breweries: Garage Project, Parrot Dog, Kereru, Panhead, Heyday, Boneface, Te Aro, Whistling Sisters, Mean Doses...). If you are there in August there is a fab beer festival called Beervana (look it up) and food festival - Auckland has a few good breweries too (Behemoth, Urbanaut, Epic, Brothers) - Pretty much any supermarket in NZ has a good craft beer selection but New World supermarket is the best mainstream chain Dark chocolate: - Whittikars choc is the staple and fab - Wellington Chocolate Company Wine: - Marlborough region (also beautiful) - Hawkes Bay region - Central Otago (Pinot Noir) - Martinborough (hidden gem) Walks/hikes - Tongoriro Crossing - Queen Charlotte Track - Milford Track - Heaphy Track - Kepler Track - Routeburn Track Northland - Bay of Islands (Russell is cute and Waitangi is historic) - Oakura Bay - Taupo Bay - Farewell Spit - 90-mile beach - Motueka town - Poor Knights Island (marine reserve) - Great Barrier Island - Tāne Mahuta - Cape Reinga We are based in Auckland, been watching your channel for years and can't wait to see Gone with the Wynns, NZ edition :) Hit us up if you have any questions at all.
We missed our 35th Anniversary big planned trip last year because of lockdown. We’re also doing a celebratory big camping trip this year (knocking off a couple more States on our “going to ALL the States” bucket list). Along with a large number of others, we see camping as safest way to get out there. At least we’ve already had our trailer for many years. So far no problems getting camping sites booked, it helps going early in a season in very northern States.
Congratulations on the 15 years. We will be celebrating 54 years in Oct. We wish you continued good fortune in your travels. We do enjoying see parts of the world that we will never see in our lives.
Great to hear you are coming to NZ - I live in Auckland and plenty of boating knowledge. More than happy to help if you need anything when you arrive. Safe travels.
Kia ora, congrats on 15 years! Weather won't be amazing temp-wise but it's a perfect time to visit as it'll be nice and quiet with no tourists here! The bay of islands, where you are arriving into, is really beautiful and you'll enjoy the sheltered anchorages around there. Check out Urapukapuka Island in the bay of islands...nice walk! Also 'hole in the rock' is popular. The road trip you're doing will be great - it's not crazy populated up North. All of the beaches and seaside towns on the east coast as you're driving up are great...the Karikari peninsula is beautiful. You can drive back on ninety mile beach on the west coast at low tide once you've been to the very top of NZ - it's considered a road and well worth it. If you get a chance to visit the sand dunes on the northern side of Opononi it's pretty cool! Stop at Tanamahuta tree when driving south from Opononi - the tree is massive and we consider it to be the father of the forest. If you end up staying for a while and travelling around NZ a bit on the boat then you'll likely want to stay on the eastern side of NZ as the west coast generally doesn't have safe anchorages unless you're wanting to go over harbour bars. The hauraki gulf is where we do most of our boating and there is heaps to explore - anchoring off Rangitoto island, a volcano, and doing the walk up to the top is awesome! Well worth a visit also, in the same area, is Tiritiri Matangi island which is a nature reserve. Just anchor on the western side and go ashore. Heaps of rare birds and if you're there at night you might be lucky enough to see a kiwi. One of my favorite places is Great barrier island - western side has heaps of safe anchorages and it's a really special place with super cool locals. There's a gin distillery there too if you're into that sort of stuff! Then sailing down the eastern coast of Coromandel is fantastic. If you make it as far south as Gulf Harbour then give me a shout and I'll bring you some local craft beer! Last thing, and you likely know this already, but you can't bring any fresh fruit or vegetables into NZ.... so you'll have to eat them all up before you arrive into Opua. Take care Guys.
You guys are the most underrated youtubers out there. I just found your channel and I’m so hooked!! I love how absolutely beautiful each of your videos are, how funny you guys are and how you often feature the stories of other locals and travelers. You guys give me courage to keep pushing towards living life as an adventure. And I love your Texas down to earth personalities and no fear to show the positives and real life challenges that we all are going to face. Thanks so much for making such inspiring content! ❤️
Good luck. You'll be fine ❤😇 I've asked my grandfather to watch over you. He was a sailor and came from a long line of sailors from new Zealand. My heart is full, he is willing to be with you for a smooth sail ❤❤❤😇😇😇 Happy anniversary you are a great couple, it's always a joy to watch you together and bantering 🧞♂️❤🖖
Wow great news from you. I live in the south Island of New Zealand. So wonderful to know that a sailing channel couple has come to my country. Hope you come down this way as we might see you here.
Glad you were approved to set sail for New Zealand. Nikki, as one who has had sinus and respiratory issues, I'll be praying you can get some long term help. Finally Happy Anniversary! My wife and I celebrated our 50th last year, just before COVID began, on a cruise form CA to French Polynesia for a month.
My potent lifelong fascination with and love of aviation as a GA pilot predominantly involved in bush flying was also foreshortened by onset of Meniere's disease while working as a police officer in the outback some years ago now Captain. While I cannot possibly know how others in our situation feel being intimately acquainted with it's effect upon myself I think we at least share that as a common frame of reference. I have often wondered if all the frequent changes to altitude might have contributed. I contracted the disorder on one ear only and possibly due at least in part to a vocation related incident. Prior to destructive surgery I was self administering Diazepam intramuscularly virtually every day because I couldn't keep pills like Stematil* down long enough for them to have an effect and there were even times when I had to use an anti-emetic called Maxolon*. Thankfully surgery finally got it under control but I am now hearing impaired in the affected ear and tend to adopt a slight left bank from time to time while walking on a prolonged heading. A diet as low as possible in salt and caffeine including dark chocolate has helped significantly and apart from an occasional bout of 'benign positional vestibulitis' or something that sounds similar from memory I have thankfully been episode free for a decade or so now.
Great video. It’s 42 years for us.❤️ We we’re married in Florida in 1979, spent a couple of nights at the Polynesian Disney resort and then about a week tent camping up the east coast to Maryland where I was stationed. Congratulations on 15 years and your many adventures.
I really like the "seaspeak" segment and its anchor..... We want it more often!!!! ... great job guys, including the editors and other professionals who help put this weekly video out... every sunday I look forward to the Wynns.
"Made thirty miles today ... ten up, ten down and ten forward"; a quote from the log of a Nantucket whaling captain sailing west in the southern ocean.
Gratz on you 15 anniversary. My wife and I just had our 54th anniversary. Hope you guys make it that far. I started watching you guys about 7 yrs ago and learned so much from you guys in the RV'ing days. Glad you guys are having a great time and hope you guys stay safe on you upcoming sail.
I hope you hit clear weather. A little southern hemisphere winter stargazing is on my bucket list. Wishing you clear nights and strange skies. And long johns.
KIa Ora Nice to see you're finally getting here, The temps for Northland aren't too bad in winter, average is about 18c (64f), And any plans for a meet up? :D
While I can't advise you on your awesome road trip, I have watched the last many episodes with wonder as to how you, Nikki, have not had sinus issues related to mold. You were in the thick of it. I have learned A LOT about mold, and how it is often misdiagnosed as allergies. It can take harbor in your sinuses and cause havoc. Please consider a relatively cheap urine mold mycotoxi s test, in addition to a MARCONS test (easy nasal swab). P.S. antibiotics could potentially make things worse, as your good microbiome is dismantled as well. Just a thought. Message me for more details, if interested.
As a healthcare provider, I second the mold scenario. Quite worth checking out given your current environment. The IgE blood test is a good start, nasal swab. But don’t be surprised if ENT want to do a CT SCAN. That will be expensive.
So glad to hear about your approval for entry into New Zealand. Thank you for explaining how you approach the passage planning process. So interesting about available wind apps and using agents for passage and entry planning. I think the agent was a wise choice for this long passage. Best of luck and wishing you a smooth passage. Looking forward to your adventures in New Zealand. Happy Anniversary!
Matauri bay is beautiful. There is a basic but ‘everything you need’ camp ground and is the well known dive sight of the Rainbow Warrior Green Peace boat. You will love to sail this area when you are back in the water. Safe travels
Happy early anniversary. As a fellow Dallas, Texan, my wife and I just also celebrated the 15th anniversary with a Florida connection (I proposed to her in 2004 at Cheeca Lodge Islamorada). Jason, as a reminder, the gem this year is Ruby - so plan accordingly.
Happy anniversary! Our 15th is in two weeks! Engaged in The Smokies and married in Yosemite. You guys have definitely inspired our next big adventure, thank you!
Here are some places to visit: - Juche Tower - USS Pueblo/Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum - Rungrado May Day Stadium (world's largest stadium) - Munsu Water Park - Mansudae Hill Grand Monument - Mount Paektu - Pyongyang Metro - Wonsan beach - Mount Kumgang - Masikryong Ski Resort - Kimilsungia and Kimjongilia flower exhibition Hall oh wait those are all places in our country...which you should visit regardless.
I am praying for good news on your passage and illness, and everything goes well. Maybe you should get someone if possible, to go with you. God speed and see soon.
You guys rock. Time flies watching your videos and updates. I sailed for years, never overly far, but love how your challenges bring back so many memories. Stay safe and continue to enjoy the ride.
I thoroughly enjoy your SeaTalk series! Good humor, good execution. I have a NZ travel story I'll keep really short. From the Seattle, WA, area in 1982 I found I could get to Christchurch on military Space Available flights. I made all the connections without getting bumped and made it to NZ in about 30 hours. My plan was to rent a bicycle and ride all around the South Island in 10 days. I rented the bike and started out heading for Queenstown in the south end where I could keep my eye on Mt. Cook the whole way. I rode and rode and rode, and it didn't seem to be getting any closer. Finally when I stopped for the night, I ate at a small restaurant and found out that on a bicycle it might take me a week just to get to Queenstown from there. I pulled my map out and took a closer look at it. It was a large scale map of the whole country and the islands looked fairly small. But when I decided to convert KM to Miles, I realized that the New Zealand is about the size of CA! SO, I was able to fit the bike on the front of all the buses and I was in Queenstown the next evening! I did the rest of the isalnd the same way. Few wouild make such a stupid mistake as that, but I mention it for a laugh at my expense.
Nz has the best rules around free camping. Get a “self contained” certified camper and you can stay in amazing places for free. Find community hot springs not the super commercial ones.
Hey great you're finally getting here! Northland has some great places to visit, and its slightly warmer, but I reckon u would be shortchanging yourselves if you left without doing the Coromandel in a van - you would love its green focused communities and beautiful beaches (even in winter!) and maybe a flight to the south island for your anniversary. Nelson is beautiful, Kaikoura is wonderful, the West Coast is wild and untouched, all the Southern Lakes will make your eyes sore theyre so gobsmacking, Tekapo stargazing is great, the world famous road to Glenorchy literally ends at Paradise, not to mention all the walks and trails! Am I at all biased about our country you might ask? Heck yes! Btw, I suppose as this video is out that you are already here, so welcome!
I’ve had sinus issues for most of my 72 years. After 3 surgeries over 18 years and daily Flonaise usage I can say it isn’t the focus of my life. Good luck and happy anniversary. Also use a Netty Pot with warm salt water.
Laughing through the bloopers and hearing you direct each other... Who takes direction better? Congratulations on the anniversary, and on the NZ trip! Best wishes.
My wife and I are currently motoring around Northland and will be around for another couple of weeks. Happy to let you know the highlights we have come across both camp based and freedom camping
Hey Nikki! Sorry to hear about your sinus troubles! I too, have issues and the number one thing that helps me is irrigation(squirt bottle of saline) everyday. During flare ups twice a day is neeeded. When I slack off...sinus pressure and headaches! Anyway good luck resolving that issue! I have been following you and Jason's blog since your RV days. I am stoked to go along on a New Zealand roadtrip with you! I also just bought a 2000 Roadtrek 170 Camper Van which is a bucklet list item. Stay safe and happy sailing! Amy
If I can help you with anything in New Zealand please feel free to reply, happy to give you some payback for all your videos. First thing I would say at the moment is, negotiate hard on your campervan. There are not many overseas visitors (obviously) so everybody is anxious to do business!
Coromandel Peninsula, Hot Beach, Cathedral Cove, Kauri Forrest, Oponini (the town where Opo the dolphin became a celebrity in the 50’s, there is a memorial to her there. Besides it is a beautiful drive with a small little ferry) Hmm. So far enough for now? I road tripped both islands in 2004
Met my husband in NZ - he had just sailed there from Denmark and managed to score an old Toyota Hiace van in a boatyard in Opua. We set out for South Island which was so spectacular. If you get that far - windy wetty Welly was fabulous (awesome backpacker hotel there), Nelson, Farewell Spit, the great tracks (we chose one of the less popular ones and had such a fantastic 4-day hike - there are huts along the way). Loved Otego/Dunedin, Queenstown, Franz Joseph glacier yada yada yada. In short, it is hard to go wrong no matter what direction you go. There is breathtaking scenery at each turn and Kiwis are very cool about not being bothered if you camp in unofficial spots. The government publishes a small booklet of great places to fish. Usually they turned out to be awesome illegal camping spots :)
We've lived here for a year and a half now but haven't gotten that far north yet. A local romantic favorite is Waiheke Island if you get further south to Auckland. It's a little off season but that means it shouldn't be crowded. Lots of vineyards and romantic hideaways on the island, which is about a 45 min ferry ride from the city.
Glad you are getting help with this new trip. Never hurts to know people with knowledge. Safe sailing and hope you find some answers for your allergies which can make you feel like death warmed over.
I absolutely love and adore y'alls chemistry! I greatly enjoy the bloopers and seeing that side of y'all too. Congrats on the 15! My wife and I are in our lower 20s and we just celebrated out 4th can't wait to get into the double digits. Good luck and safe trips on your journey. My wife and I often say you two are the most similar to our love and lifestyle we are always living bi-curiously through y'all as I am a disabled veteran hoping to one day get to experience what it is like to sail.
Please don’t take this as an affront, because it’s not meant to be at all, and I’m guessing spell check had something to do with it, but do you mean vicariously? 😊
Congrats 15! In July my wife & I will celebrate 28 years married, 35 together. BUT! I empathized with your taro plant encounter. I'm a biologist and I've suffered with severe allergies all my life. I'm constantly searching for and finding ways to defeat them. We moved to Canada 17 years ago, turns out I'm allergic to Canada, apart from food allergies, I've been allergy free for the last few years, it's wonderful to breath free. My school motto - sapientia vincit - wisdom conquers. I'm willing to share my knowledge with anyone in need and would love to help you find relief if I may.
Fixing YOU is more important than fixing the boat Nikki - should be the no. 1 reason for going to New Zealand! Safe journey and look forward to seeing your roadtrip. Thanks to you both for a fabulous and entertaining channel - I’ve followed you since your days in the RV and love experiencing your epic adventures, albeit just online!
I took a similar route in 2000 when I visited and car camped for a month in New Zealand. First, every turn is an Oh My God moment. The place is amazing! One of my favorite places, near point three on your map is the Coromandel peninsula. I stayed at Waikawau Bay Campgrounds, very cool. Second, Rotorua, the second largest geothermal area on the planet, Yellowstone being first. I found a hot spring there that I soaked in that when I got out my normally straight hair had gone curly. Stayed that way for a week. Also, the Lake Taupo area, also on your route, is amazing and worth a visit. Have fun, I am slightly jealous.
Hey guys. First of all thanks for all your work. I am following you for more than 5 years now and because of you, we bought our first camper in Canada and installed all the main parts like solar, new toilet, etc. by ourselves. And next year, we are going to get our first boat after selling our camper. Anyway, my wife and I are not originally from NZ, but we have a couple of friends living there and we got married there 3 years ago. And funnily enough, you are going to arrive in Opua - this is where we started on our wedding day to get to Urupukapuka Island to get married. So, since my wife and I are living in Berlin, Germany now, we can't be there and show you around, but our friends live near Kerikeri (where your first tour stop will be). So, if you would like to spent some wonderful time, with some amazing people in Kerikeri and around, let me know and I will connect you with them. They will be happy to have you at there home, show you around (Waitangi Treaty Grounds is one of the most important places in NZ and very near by) and have some great BBQs with you. A & T are some of the nicest people I know. So, yeah, let me know, if this is something for you. And in the meantime, enjoy your trip!
Don't forget to check out the little coastal town of Russell, NZ. It's rich in history of whalers and pirates and the beach there can be riddled with colored sea-glass, shards of decorative English china and clay pipe stems, all of which date back to the time of sailing frigates and privateers. Swells and surge from winter storms will produce the biggest yield of these cool artifacts.
Ahhh... the life of an adventurer... scary, thrilling & humbling! With many unknowns, living each day committed to living a life filled with CURIOSITY and WONDER, gives daily life foundation & meaning that seems to fill in all the uncertainties with details & "hows" as they come into play. You two are so inspiring! Take care of yourselves and be safe! May the passage to New Zealand be smooth!
If the weather looks a bit nasty rather than stopping at Minerva Reef and damaging your quarantine time just remember to slow down stall the boat or even hove to for a while to wait for the window.
Nz Frenzy is a great book for planning a trip in New Zealand. It features the 'off the beaten path' attractions. I highly recommend making the trek to the south island even in the winter. Dunedin and Auckland were our favorite cities. There will be skiing outside of Queenstown in July. Checkout Cardona resort! Its an Amazing mountain!
Happy 15th anniversary , that is a great news , we just pass our 22nd , I hope you can get all the help you need for this voyage in order to get to New Zealand safe , have fair winds and seas , and all the best in your journey .
I know your road trip is around Northland but I would highly recommend taking an internal flight to Queenstown and exploring that region and a trip to Milford Sound for some spectacular scenery, great vineyards and fun activities. Speak to Tourism NZ about possible partnerships.
You guys are a great couple. And that video within a video idea is awesome. Love the rectangle of knowledge. Have a safe sail. We will be watching you.
Wishing you safe passage... and I'd just like to say that for me (with VERY little sailing knowledge) this was a fantastically informative (and entertaining )video! We've spent nearly a month in New Zealand and would travel back in a heartbeat if it were possible. The country and the people are fantastic... anywhere you go you'll not fail to be amazed and enchanted. Unlike you, however, we started our trip in Aukland and basically went south... all the way to the tip of the south island. Magnificent seems not descriptive enough. I can't wait to watch your explorations. OH! and Happy Anniversary!!!
After 40 years of chronic sinus - hay fever - allergy issues, I changed to a grain free diet 9 years ago and have resolved 99% of my issues, it might be worth a try.
My SIL did the same thing. Gluten free diet solved so many issues. She’s no longer getting multiple allergy shots and meds. It might be harder to do when you don’t have access to wide range of food choices in the remote places the Wyns go, but worth exploring. BaDaBum
@@lindacondray7918 I would think that Gluten Free would actually be easier on a boat. Just don't buy any grains (or only gluten free ones). focus on veggies and meats (lots of fish!) There aren't any stores in the middle of the ocean to tempt you to cheat.
its a good trip down, last time I did it we dipped the bridge wings on the 220m container ship while running with the swell, ripped half the port one off.... fun times... as long as you play your weather windows you'll be fine. make sure you stop into the Marlborough sounds, lots of good wine and really nice bays. Nelson has a crap load of places to get things fixed as well. Head to the Franz Josef Glacier, theres some awesome farm stay lodges below it with views of it from your warm bed.
NZ is the friendliest place on earth. As an Aussie married to a Kiwi I have been many times with my personal tour guide and love love love the place. It's like the whole world bundled into two beautiful islands. You'll love the people and the adventure, green paradise, freedom camping, culture, rugged landscape, torqouise rivers, beautiful beaches, lots of sheepies xx
Guys, you amaze me each and every time! Prayers for a safe and successful passage, love the out takes. My relationship with my bride solidified during our first road trip! It seems that a road trip will bring out the best and worst in a person and prepares you and your partner with a treasure box full of information about that person. Our first road trip was from San Antonio TX to Salt Lake City we tented our way to and from. It’s one of our first camping memories and we have made 100’s if not thousands more memories from that June date in 2003. Hope you get your allergies taken care of and that the passage does not make your Vertigo worst. Blessing and travel mercies
Hi guys, Super congratulations on your 15 anniversary. We just celebrated our 51st. Nikki sorry to hear about the allergies, their miserable. Love you guys, safe passage wishes from me to you both.
Cape Reinga, the northern most tip of the north island. A beautiful place and fun to travel to and on the way back down you could see “90 mile beach”, sand dunes and such, another wild and secluded place of the northern island. Southern island mountains are a great place to visit also, beautiful parks and hiking places along the way.
I live in Dallas, I didn’t realize you guys were from here too. I hope your allergies get much better. Every bodies are bad right now with spring and everything’s blooming.
Winter in New Zealand is the best time. It’s the off season and no crowds. We had a grate time. Not one bad place or people when we were there. Have a pie or two. Enjoy your time places and people
Best sleep in the most comfortable bed I have ever had was the A1 Queenstown Motel. I know it sounds unreal, but I still remember that great, fluffy, sleeping in a cloud bed. No idea if that place is still around. Loved NZ.
Whittaker’s chocolate is sweet !! Head down too the thermal pools in Rotorua & lake Taupo !! Approx 3.5 hrs from Auckland on SH1 !! Love the channel 👌🏻
There is this company in New Zealand called Sunshine Wedding Elopements. They will take you to some of the most remote and beautiful places in the country some only accessible by Helicopter. I am pretty sure they will take you if you want to renew your vows or second honeymoon pictures, anniversaries etc . My friend did it and the location was stunning.
15 years and neither one of you have gained an ounce it appears. And you don’t hate each other in spit3 of 24/7 togetherness. Incredible.
Brewery suggestions:
- Wellington is the place to go for the best breweries, beer bars and burgers in NZ (Breweries: Garage Project, Parrot Dog, Kereru, Panhead, Heyday, Boneface, Te Aro, Whistling Sisters, Mean Doses...). If you are there in August there is a fab beer festival called Beervana (look it up) and food festival
- Auckland has a few good breweries too (Behemoth, Urbanaut, Epic, Brothers)
- Pretty much any supermarket in NZ has a good craft beer selection but New World supermarket is the best mainstream chain
Dark chocolate:
- Whittikars choc is the staple and fab
- Wellington Chocolate Company
Wine:
- Marlborough region (also beautiful)
- Hawkes Bay region
- Central Otago (Pinot Noir)
- Martinborough (hidden gem)
Walks/hikes
- Tongoriro Crossing
- Queen Charlotte Track
- Milford Track
- Heaphy Track
- Kepler Track
- Routeburn Track
Northland
- Bay of Islands (Russell is cute and Waitangi is historic)
- Oakura Bay
- Taupo Bay
- Farewell Spit
- 90-mile beach
- Motueka town
- Poor Knights Island (marine reserve)
- Great Barrier Island
- Tāne Mahuta
- Cape Reinga
We are based in Auckland, been watching your channel for years and can't wait to see Gone with the Wynns, NZ edition :) Hit us up if you have any questions at all.
The Coromandel Peninsula is always awesome, romantic, and rugged... though it is south of the area you are planning, but still on the North island.
Congratulations on 15 years Nikki and Jason..Our 44th anniversary is coming up and we're going camping for a week at the lake..
Happy anniversary!
We missed our 35th Anniversary big planned trip last year because of lockdown. We’re also doing a celebratory big camping trip this year (knocking off a couple more States on our “going to ALL the States” bucket list). Along with a large number of others, we see camping as safest way to get out there. At least we’ve already had our trailer for many years. So far no problems getting camping sites booked, it helps going early in a season in very northern States.
Congratulations on the 15 years. We will be celebrating 54 years in Oct. We wish you continued good fortune in your travels. We do enjoying see parts of the world that we will never see in our lives.
Kiwi here - would definitely recommend taking a flight to Queenstown in the winter. don't just forgo the best island because it is cold
Definitely the most beautiful part of NZ
@@123canadagirl beautiful part of a gorgeous country, surpassed only by 🏴 and 🇨🇦!
Great to hear you are coming to NZ - I live in Auckland and plenty of boating knowledge. More than happy to help if you need anything when you arrive. Safe travels.
Let's turn to "The Rectangle of Knowledge" ... I had to pause the video I was laughing so hard. I'm totally stealing that one.
Could be worse. It could be the sphere of knowledge which they shake and tells them "Reply hazy, try again."
🤣🤣🤣❤️
Same!!! 😂
That's what we've been calling it ever since we heard Jason say it a few months ago. It's an apt description of smart phones.
@@nemo227 Somehow I missed him saying that.
I love the "Show within a show" lol
I know you....That's not your real name!! You're Michael Meyers, the killer!!
The Seaspeak kills me. 😂😂 Please don’t ever stop these!
You are a happy couple, plainly each other's best friend, with whom you take endless delight. Happy anniversary!
Kia ora, congrats on 15 years!
Weather won't be amazing temp-wise but it's a perfect time to visit as it'll be nice and quiet with no tourists here! The bay of islands, where you are arriving into, is really beautiful and you'll enjoy the sheltered anchorages around there. Check out Urapukapuka Island in the bay of islands...nice walk! Also 'hole in the rock' is popular. The road trip you're doing will be great - it's not crazy populated up North. All of the beaches and seaside towns on the east coast as you're driving up are great...the Karikari peninsula is beautiful. You can drive back on ninety mile beach on the west coast at low tide once you've been to the very top of NZ - it's considered a road and well worth it. If you get a chance to visit the sand dunes on the northern side of Opononi it's pretty cool! Stop at Tanamahuta tree when driving south from Opononi - the tree is massive and we consider it to be the father of the forest. If you end up staying for a while and travelling around NZ a bit on the boat then you'll likely want to stay on the eastern side of NZ as the west coast generally doesn't have safe anchorages unless you're wanting to go over harbour bars. The hauraki gulf is where we do most of our boating and there is heaps to explore - anchoring off Rangitoto island, a volcano, and doing the walk up to the top is awesome! Well worth a visit also, in the same area, is Tiritiri Matangi island which is a nature reserve. Just anchor on the western side and go ashore. Heaps of rare birds and if you're there at night you might be lucky enough to see a kiwi. One of my favorite places is Great barrier island - western side has heaps of safe anchorages and it's a really special place with super cool locals. There's a gin distillery there too if you're into that sort of stuff! Then sailing down the eastern coast of Coromandel is fantastic. If you make it as far south as Gulf Harbour then give me a shout and I'll bring you some local craft beer! Last thing, and you likely know this already, but you can't bring any fresh fruit or vegetables into NZ.... so you'll have to eat them all up before you arrive into Opua. Take care Guys.
You had us at gin.....
You guys are the most underrated youtubers out there. I just found your channel and I’m so hooked!! I love how absolutely beautiful each of your videos are, how funny you guys are and how you often feature the stories of other locals and travelers. You guys give me courage to keep pushing towards living life as an adventure. And I love your Texas down to earth personalities and no fear to show the positives and real life challenges that we all are going to face. Thanks so much for making such inspiring content! ❤️
Well said!
I love it when sailing channels go through history, local culture, food, local interest, etc...this channel is great at it!
Isn't this the truth!! Be warned....been known to cause binge watching and nearly all nighters until you get caught up!!! Hehehe..happened to us! 😊
I looked it up. The Wynns are either #2 or #3 among sailing youtubers...so not underrated.
Good luck. You'll be fine ❤😇
I've asked my grandfather to watch over you. He was a sailor and came from a long line of sailors from new Zealand.
My heart is full, he is willing to be with you for a smooth sail ❤❤❤😇😇😇
Happy anniversary you are a great couple, it's always a joy to watch you together and bantering 🧞♂️❤🖖
Wow great news from you. I live in the south Island of New Zealand. So wonderful to know that a sailing channel couple has come to my country. Hope you come down this way as we might see you here.
Good luck , Happy Anniversary and praying for a safe passage.
Glad you were approved to set sail for New Zealand. Nikki, as one who has had sinus and respiratory issues, I'll be praying you can get some long term help.
Finally Happy Anniversary! My wife and I celebrated our 50th last year, just before COVID began, on a cruise form CA to French Polynesia for a month.
As a retired captain due to vertigo diagnosed as Meniere's disease, I found the Epley maneuver worked best.
My potent lifelong fascination with and love of aviation as a GA pilot predominantly involved in bush flying was also foreshortened by onset of Meniere's disease while working as a police officer in the outback some years ago now Captain.
While I cannot possibly know how others in our situation feel being intimately acquainted with it's effect upon myself I think we at least share that as a common frame of reference.
I have often wondered if all the frequent changes to altitude might have contributed.
I contracted the disorder on one ear only and possibly due at least in part to a vocation related incident.
Prior to destructive surgery I was self administering Diazepam intramuscularly virtually every day because I couldn't keep pills like Stematil* down long enough for them to have an effect and there were even times when I had to use an anti-emetic called Maxolon*.
Thankfully surgery finally got it under control but I am now hearing impaired in the affected ear and tend to adopt a slight left bank from time to time while walking on a prolonged heading.
A diet as low as possible in salt and caffeine including dark chocolate has helped significantly and apart from an occasional bout of 'benign positional vestibulitis' or something that sounds similar from memory I have thankfully been episode free for a decade or so now.
Great video. It’s 42 years for us.❤️ We we’re married in Florida in 1979, spent a couple of nights at the Polynesian Disney resort and then about a week tent camping up the east coast to Maryland where I was stationed. Congratulations on 15 years and your many adventures.
Godspeed and safe journey!! And Happy Anniversary! We have our 38th this month. Love the bloopers and Seaspeak!
happy anniversary, we just had our 38th as well! we're a rare breed.
I really like the "seaspeak" segment and its anchor..... We want it more often!!!! ... great job guys, including the editors and other professionals who help put this weekly video out... every sunday I look forward to the Wynns.
"Made thirty miles today ... ten up, ten down and ten forward"; a quote from the log of a Nantucket whaling captain sailing west in the southern ocean.
Gratz on you 15 anniversary. My wife and I just had our 54th anniversary. Hope you guys make it that far. I started watching you guys about 7 yrs ago and learned so much from you guys in the RV'ing days. Glad you guys are having a great time and hope you guys stay safe on you upcoming sail.
Dude, this is one of your best episodes. Loved the segment explaining the roaring 40s! Hilarious!
I'm going to remember the "rectangle of knowledge." Forever.
@@donm2255 yes! that made me laugh out loud!
I hope you hit clear weather. A little southern hemisphere winter stargazing is on my bucket list. Wishing you clear nights and strange skies. And long johns.
Omg I'm from NZ and Whananaki looks very close to your trip route but it is one of the coolest wee places in Northland so dont miss it 🤩🤩
Wishing lots of luck and good weather in making this voyage. Happy 15th Anniversary!
KIa Ora Nice to see you're finally getting here, The temps for Northland aren't too bad in winter, average is about 18c (64f), And any plans for a meet up? :D
While I can't advise you on your awesome road trip, I have watched the last many episodes with wonder as to how you, Nikki, have not had sinus issues related to mold. You were in the thick of it. I have learned A LOT about mold, and how it is often misdiagnosed as allergies. It can take harbor in your sinuses and cause havoc. Please consider a relatively cheap urine mold mycotoxi s test, in addition to a MARCONS test (easy nasal swab). P.S. antibiotics could potentially make things worse, as your good microbiome is dismantled as well. Just a thought. Message me for more details, if interested.
Truth. I wish everyone knew this. Antibiotic's not only kill bad bacteria. They kill the good bacteria as well.
As a healthcare provider, I second the mold scenario. Quite worth checking out given your current environment. The IgE blood test is a good start, nasal swab. But don’t be surprised if ENT want to do a CT SCAN. That will be expensive.
So glad to hear about your approval for entry into New Zealand. Thank you for explaining how you approach the passage planning process. So interesting about available wind apps and using agents for passage and entry planning. I think the agent was a wise choice for this long passage. Best of luck and wishing you a smooth passage. Looking forward to your adventures in New Zealand. Happy Anniversary!
Matauri bay is beautiful. There is a basic but ‘everything you need’ camp ground and is the well known dive sight of the Rainbow Warrior Green Peace boat. You will love to sail this area when you are back in the water. Safe travels
And the music you guys find!! Your videos are like little movies. Really you guys do such an incredible job. 🙏🏼💙💙💙
👍❤🌷👋😙😙😙
Happy early anniversary. As a fellow Dallas, Texan, my wife and I just also celebrated the 15th anniversary with a Florida connection (I proposed to her in 2004 at Cheeca Lodge Islamorada). Jason, as a reminder, the gem this year is Ruby - so plan accordingly.
Happy anniversary! Our 15th is in two weeks! Engaged in The Smokies and married in Yosemite. You guys have definitely inspired our next big adventure, thank you!
Man-O-War Bay..Waiheke Island..ferry out of Auckland..anchored there for 2 years!! Absolutely wonderful..cheers
Here are some places to visit:
- Juche Tower
- USS Pueblo/Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum
- Rungrado May Day Stadium (world's largest stadium)
- Munsu Water Park
- Mansudae Hill Grand Monument
- Mount Paektu
- Pyongyang Metro
- Wonsan beach
- Mount Kumgang
- Masikryong Ski Resort
- Kimilsungia and Kimjongilia flower exhibition Hall
oh wait those are all places in our country...which you should visit regardless.
I'd like to hear what you are doing to the boat. Bottom Paint, Sealing Leaks, New Sails, New Furling rigs... All that.
I am praying for good news on your passage and illness, and everything goes well. Maybe you should get someone if possible, to go with you. God speed and see soon.
You guys rock. Time flies watching your videos and updates. I sailed for years, never overly far, but love how your challenges bring back so many memories. Stay safe and continue to enjoy the ride.
I thoroughly enjoy your SeaTalk series! Good humor, good execution.
I have a NZ travel story I'll keep really short. From the Seattle, WA, area in 1982 I found I could get to Christchurch on military Space Available flights. I made all the connections without getting bumped and made it to NZ in about 30 hours. My plan was to rent a bicycle and ride all around the South Island in 10 days. I rented the bike and started out heading for Queenstown in the south end where I could keep my eye on Mt. Cook the whole way. I rode and rode and rode, and it didn't seem to be getting any closer. Finally when I stopped for the night, I ate at a small restaurant and found out that on a bicycle it might take me a week just to get to Queenstown from there. I pulled my map out and took a closer look at it. It was a large scale map of the whole country and the islands looked fairly small. But when I decided to convert KM to Miles, I realized that the New Zealand is about the size of CA! SO, I was able to fit the bike on the front of all the buses and I was in Queenstown the next evening! I did the rest of the isalnd the same way. Few wouild make such a stupid mistake as that, but I mention it for a laugh at my expense.
Nz has the best rules around free camping. Get a “self contained” certified camper and you can stay in amazing places for free. Find community hot springs not the super commercial ones.
Thanks for going through the weather routing. Most videos really gloss over that. I'd love even more detail!
Hey great you're finally getting here! Northland has some great places to visit, and its slightly warmer, but I reckon u would be shortchanging yourselves if you left without doing the Coromandel in a van - you would love its green focused communities and beautiful beaches (even in winter!) and maybe a flight to the south island for your anniversary. Nelson is beautiful, Kaikoura is wonderful, the West Coast is wild and untouched, all the Southern Lakes will make your eyes sore theyre so gobsmacking, Tekapo stargazing is great, the world famous road to Glenorchy literally ends at Paradise, not to mention all the walks and trails! Am I at all biased about our country you might ask? Heck yes! Btw, I suppose as this video is out that you are already here, so welcome!
I’ve had sinus issues for most of my 72 years. After 3 surgeries over 18 years and daily Flonaise usage I can say it isn’t the focus of my life. Good luck and happy anniversary. Also use a Netty Pot with warm salt water.
Laughing through the bloopers and hearing you direct each other... Who takes direction better? Congratulations on the anniversary, and on the NZ trip! Best wishes.
My wife and I are currently motoring around Northland and will be around for another couple of weeks. Happy to let you know the highlights we have come across both camp based and freedom camping
South Island in winter is beautiful, Wanaka, Arrowtown, Milford sound, it will be cold but gorgeous.
Speaking as a South islander living in Kerikeri.
Hey Nikki! Sorry to hear about your sinus troubles! I too, have issues and the number one thing that helps me is irrigation(squirt bottle of saline) everyday. During flare ups twice a day is neeeded. When I slack off...sinus pressure and headaches! Anyway good luck resolving that issue! I have been following you and Jason's blog since your RV days. I am stoked to go along on a New Zealand roadtrip with you! I also just bought a 2000 Roadtrek 170 Camper Van which is a bucklet list item. Stay safe and happy sailing! Amy
If I can help you with anything in New Zealand please feel free to reply, happy to give you some payback for all your videos. First thing I would say at the moment is, negotiate hard on your campervan. There are not many overseas visitors (obviously) so everybody is anxious to do business!
My wife and I celebrated our 20th this past memorial day weekend. I will be pulling for you guys on this trip. Fill those water tanks!
Sailing into the winter of New Zealand....
you're gonna become true Wellermen
Coromandel Peninsula, Hot Beach, Cathedral Cove, Kauri Forrest, Oponini (the town where Opo the dolphin became a celebrity in the 50’s, there is a memorial to her there. Besides it is a beautiful drive with a small little ferry) Hmm. So far enough for now? I road tripped both islands in 2004
Met my husband in NZ - he had just sailed there from Denmark and managed to score an old Toyota Hiace van in a boatyard in Opua. We set out for South Island which was so spectacular. If you get that far - windy wetty Welly was fabulous (awesome backpacker hotel there), Nelson, Farewell Spit, the great tracks (we chose one of the less popular ones and had such a fantastic 4-day hike - there are huts along the way). Loved Otego/Dunedin, Queenstown, Franz Joseph glacier yada yada yada. In short, it is hard to go wrong no matter what direction you go. There is breathtaking scenery at each turn and Kiwis are very cool about not being bothered if you camp in unofficial spots. The government publishes a small booklet of great places to fish. Usually they turned out to be awesome illegal camping spots :)
15 years! I guess you're a lot older than I thought. Congratulations on the journey so far.
We've lived here for a year and a half now but haven't gotten that far north yet. A local romantic favorite is Waiheke Island if you get further south to Auckland. It's a little off season but that means it shouldn't be crowded. Lots of vineyards and romantic hideaways on the island, which is about a 45 min ferry ride from the city.
I love the ‘show within’ the show’! Keep up the good work guys....
Glad you are getting help with this new trip. Never hurts to know people with knowledge. Safe sailing and hope you find some answers for your allergies which can make you feel like death warmed over.
I absolutely love and adore y'alls chemistry! I greatly enjoy the bloopers and seeing that side of y'all too. Congrats on the 15! My wife and I are in our lower 20s and we just celebrated out 4th can't wait to get into the double digits. Good luck and safe trips on your journey. My wife and I often say you two are the most similar to our love and lifestyle we are always living bi-curiously through y'all as I am a disabled veteran hoping to one day get to experience what it is like to sail.
Please don’t take this as an affront, because it’s not meant to be at all, and I’m guessing spell check had something to do with it, but do you mean vicariously? 😊
Congrats 15! In July my wife & I will celebrate 28 years married, 35 together.
BUT! I empathized with your taro plant encounter. I'm a biologist and I've suffered with severe allergies all my life. I'm constantly searching for and finding ways to defeat them. We moved to Canada 17 years ago, turns out I'm allergic to Canada, apart from food allergies, I've been allergy free for the last few years, it's wonderful to breath free. My school motto - sapientia vincit - wisdom conquers. I'm willing to share my knowledge with anyone in need and would love to help you find relief if I may.
WE got married at Carillon Beach - just east of Seaside!
Fixing YOU is more important than fixing the boat Nikki - should be the no. 1 reason for going to New Zealand! Safe journey and look forward to seeing your roadtrip.
Thanks to you both for a fabulous and entertaining channel - I’ve followed you since your days in the RV and love experiencing your epic adventures, albeit just online!
I took a similar route in 2000 when I visited and car camped for a month in New Zealand. First, every turn is an Oh My God moment. The place is amazing! One of my favorite places, near point three on your map is the Coromandel peninsula. I stayed at Waikawau Bay Campgrounds, very cool. Second, Rotorua, the second largest geothermal area on the planet, Yellowstone being first. I found a hot spring there that I soaked in that when I got out my normally straight hair had gone curly. Stayed that way for a week. Also, the Lake Taupo area, also on your route, is amazing and worth a visit. Have fun, I am slightly jealous.
thumbs up for Lake Taupo and the Mountains - the Tongararo Crossing trek.
Hey guys. First of all thanks for all your work. I am following you for more than 5 years now and because of you, we bought our first camper in Canada and installed all the main parts like solar, new toilet, etc. by ourselves. And next year, we are going to get our first boat after selling our camper.
Anyway, my wife and I are not originally from NZ, but we have a couple of friends living there and we got married there 3 years ago. And funnily enough, you are going to arrive in Opua - this is where we started on our wedding day to get to Urupukapuka Island to get married. So, since my wife and I are living in Berlin, Germany now, we can't be there and show you around, but our friends live near Kerikeri (where your first tour stop will be). So, if you would like to spent some wonderful time, with some amazing people in Kerikeri and around, let me know and I will connect you with them. They will be happy to have you at there home, show you around (Waitangi Treaty Grounds is one of the most important places in NZ and very near by) and have some great BBQs with you. A & T are some of the nicest people I know.
So, yeah, let me know, if this is something for you. And in the meantime, enjoy your trip!
All I want is a colab video with Bryce from Living Big in a Tiny House. A sailboat probably counts as tiny living.
I was thinking the same thing!
That would be so cool.
Don't forget to check out the little coastal town of Russell, NZ. It's rich in history of whalers and pirates and the beach there can be riddled with colored sea-glass, shards of decorative English china and clay pipe stems, all of which date back to the time of sailing frigates and privateers. Swells and surge from winter storms will produce the biggest yield of these cool artifacts.
Ahhh... the life of an adventurer... scary, thrilling & humbling! With many unknowns, living each day committed to living a life filled with CURIOSITY and WONDER, gives daily life foundation & meaning that seems to fill in all the uncertainties with details & "hows" as they come into play. You two are so inspiring! Take care of yourselves and be safe! May the passage to New Zealand be smooth!
If the weather looks a bit nasty rather than stopping at Minerva Reef and damaging your quarantine time just remember to slow down stall the boat or even hove to for a while to wait for the window.
This has fully filled my happy pot. And the ‘Rectangle of Knowledge’ is now born in my household.
Welcome to our amazing country. Have a great time seeing more of New Zealand. Hope you had a great sail south. Cheers
The couple who laughs together stays together. When you cant even dance your 15 year dance without cracking up, it's such a good sign.
Nz Frenzy is a great book for planning a trip in New Zealand. It features the 'off the beaten path' attractions. I highly recommend making the trek to the south island even in the winter. Dunedin and Auckland were our favorite cities. There will be skiing outside of Queenstown in July. Checkout Cardona resort! Its an Amazing mountain!
Happy 15th anniversary , that is a great news , we just pass our 22nd , I hope you can get all the help you need for this voyage in order to get to New Zealand safe , have fair winds and seas , and all the best in your journey .
I know your road trip is around Northland but I would highly recommend taking an internal flight to Queenstown and exploring that region and a trip to Milford Sound for some spectacular scenery, great vineyards and fun activities. Speak to Tourism NZ about possible partnerships.
If you want to stay somewhere expensive yes? Queenstown is extremely expensive....
Mangonui Fish Shop, 90 mile beach, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Tāne Mahuta ( Waipoua Forest ), The Kauri Museum, The Stone Store
Omg love seaspeak! So good!
You guys are a great couple. And that video within a video idea is awesome. Love the rectangle of knowledge. Have a safe sail. We will be watching you.
The sail will be rough. Can't wait to watch your voyage!
Wishing you safe passage... and I'd just like to say that for me (with VERY little sailing knowledge) this was a fantastically informative (and entertaining )video! We've spent nearly a month in New Zealand and would travel back in a heartbeat if it were possible. The country and the people are fantastic... anywhere you go you'll not fail to be amazed and enchanted. Unlike you, however, we started our trip in Aukland and basically went south... all the way to the tip of the south island. Magnificent seems not descriptive enough. I can't wait to watch your explorations. OH! and Happy Anniversary!!!
Seaspeak: what snippets of a nautical Wes Anderson film would look and sound like. Great Job!
Of the 4 RV's I've lived in including a 28 footer, my favorite was my VW micro-bus camper. I found that the smaller the better.
After 40 years of chronic sinus - hay fever - allergy issues, I changed to a grain free diet 9 years ago and have resolved 99% of my issues, it might be worth a try.
My SIL did the same thing. Gluten free diet solved so many issues. She’s no longer getting multiple allergy shots and meds. It might be harder to do when you don’t have access to wide range of food choices in the remote places the Wyns go, but worth exploring. BaDaBum
@@lindacondray7918 I would think that Gluten Free would actually be easier on a boat. Just don't buy any grains (or only gluten free ones). focus on veggies and meats (lots of fish!) There aren't any stores in the middle of the ocean to tempt you to cheat.
You two have a way of accomplish a lot of challenges. Positive thinking is your reward.
Please be careful on New Zealand roads. Can be dangerous. We drive on the left
Unfortunately not all the time.
its a good trip down, last time I did it we dipped the bridge wings on the 220m container ship while running with the swell, ripped half the port one off.... fun times...
as long as you play your weather windows you'll be fine. make sure you stop into the Marlborough sounds, lots of good wine and really nice bays. Nelson has a crap load of places to get things fixed as well.
Head to the Franz Josef Glacier, theres some awesome farm stay lodges below it with views of it from your warm bed.
"the rectangle of knowledge" priceless
NZ is the friendliest place on earth. As an Aussie married to a Kiwi I have been many times with my personal tour guide and love love love the place. It's like the whole world bundled into two beautiful islands. You'll love the people and the adventure, green paradise, freedom camping, culture, rugged landscape, torqouise rivers, beautiful beaches, lots of sheepies xx
Guys, you amaze me each and every time! Prayers for a safe and successful passage, love the out takes. My relationship with my bride solidified during our first road trip! It seems that a road trip will bring out the best and worst in a person and prepares you and your partner with a treasure box full of information about that person. Our first road trip was from San Antonio TX to Salt Lake City we tented our way to and from. It’s one of our first camping memories and we have made 100’s if not thousands more memories from that June date in 2003. Hope you get your allergies taken care of and that the passage does not make your Vertigo worst. Blessing and travel mercies
Hi guys,
Super congratulations on your 15 anniversary. We just celebrated our 51st. Nikki sorry to hear about the allergies, their miserable. Love you guys, safe passage wishes from me to you both.
Love the laughter! Ya’ll crack me up. Blooper reels are the best!
Cape Reinga, the northern most tip of the north island. A beautiful place and fun to travel to and on the way back down you could see “90 mile beach”, sand dunes and such, another wild and secluded place of the northern island.
Southern island mountains are a great place to visit also, beautiful parks and hiking places along the way.
You might have mould issues in your boat, same symptoms my mate had
I live in Dallas, I didn’t realize you guys were from here too. I hope your allergies get much better. Every bodies are bad right now with spring and everything’s blooming.
Be wary of the cost in NZ, it's high, yes you can get stuff done but you will pay a premium, nothing cheap here
Yes, but the US$ exchange rate is quite good for them at present. Roughly 1.5 to 1
Winter in New Zealand is the best time. It’s the off season and no crowds. We had a grate time. Not one bad place or people when we were there. Have a pie or two. Enjoy your time places and people
Super exciting that you’re heading to my home!! Winters can be more crisp and sunny… had heard we might be getting a milder winter than normal 🤞
Thought of you as soon as they said New Zealand road trip
Best sleep in the most comfortable bed I have ever had was the A1 Queenstown Motel. I know it sounds unreal, but I still remember that great, fluffy, sleeping in a cloud bed. No idea if that place is still around. Loved NZ.
Whittaker’s chocolate is sweet !! Head down too the thermal pools in Rotorua & lake Taupo !! Approx 3.5 hrs from Auckland on SH1 !! Love the channel 👌🏻
There is this company in New Zealand called Sunshine Wedding Elopements. They will take you to some of the most remote and beautiful places in the country some only accessible by Helicopter. I am pretty sure they will take you if you want to renew your vows or second honeymoon pictures, anniversaries etc . My friend did it and the location was stunning.
Another perk: no allergens when things are frozen! 🤪 Hope *everything* goes well! 🙏💛 ✌️
I wish that was true! I'm in NZ and it's cold right now but allergens are everywhere.
One of the most beautiful places on this planet. There is so much to see, where to start!
Daneger & Stacy have been road tripping all over New Zealand during the pandemic. They've stayed in some gorgeous places.