Visiting big cities is always an exciting part of travelling, but there’s nothing like going on a road trip and discovering small, quaint towns. What I love most is that the energy in little towns is so different - you can take more in as there are fewer people and you have more time to explore.

Arrowtown, South Island

If you’re a fan of little towns with lots to see then Arrowtown is for you. Originally a historic mining town, Arrowtown has rich history and character in all its buildings. With many quirky stores you can visit, Arrowtown is the perfect pit stop for spending a few hours finding little trinkets and having delicious treats.

Don’t miss out on the Remarkable Sweet Shop where you can find lollies from across the worldwide!

The scenic drive to Arrowtown was even more beautiful, as you drive through windy mountainsides, greeted by views like the one below.

Cardrona, South Island

The definition of a blink-and-you-miss-it town, the village of Cardrona is part of the larger Cordrona valley. When we were driving though, I thought there was more to see, but I was easily mistaken when we parked. There’s only one main street that you drive and walk through, the same street where the famous Cardrona Hotel is located.

There’s a rumour that the Cardrona Hotel is the most photographed building in New Zealand, but myself and Nate were the only ones there taking photos. It could’ve been because most people were in the Hotel enjoying a beverage, or even the hot tub inside.

It’s easy to see why the Cardrona Hotel is a popular haunt with its rustic charm and longevity, built in 1863 during New Zealand’s gold rush era.

Fairlie, South Island

Once I discovered we were travelling through Fairlie, I knew we couldn’t drive through without visiting the Fairlie Bakehouse (only because I had seen on Google that it had rave reviews).

Fairlie was one of our quicker stops and as soon as we parked, we headed straight to the Bakehouse where a long line was already out the door. It didn’t take to reach the front and once we were inside, it reminded me of an old-school bakery with wooden panels and an assortment of pastries and pies in the glass.

I ordered the Cream Donut, which was sickly sweet with its layers of creamy and jam but, oh so worth it!

Glenorchy, South Island

This small town is a bit more well-known than the others, mainly because Glenorchy was used in a little film series you may have heard of…the one and only Lord of the Rings.

I wanted to see the Glenorchy boat shed, famous for its iconic location against the mountains and water (and it also helps that Accidentally Wes Anderson did a feature on it).

Did it disappoint? Not at all! Whilst we had to wait our turn when a tour bus of Filipinos arrived and went straight for it, it was such a fun shot to take and its easy to see why many people visit.

If you wander a bit more through Glenorchy, you’ll find small and big cafes, lookout spots and Mrs Wooly’s General Store, a quaint nook where you can pick up a coffee and have a browse through gifts, food and homewares.