It’s the Thing of Legends – The Classic Summer Roadie!

In times gone by, Kiwis would pack up their tents and campervans on Boxing Day and head to the beach in droves. But do we still crave the open road? To find the best summer holiday we put the question to our panellists recently to ask where they thought the best secret spot was for summer 23/24.

Whilst some people are clearly gatekeeping and chose not to answer we will be forever grateful to those who shared these gems:

• The Blue Springs
• The Catlins
• Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
• Kerosene Creek
• Mount Maunganui and the McLaren Falls
• Lovers Leap, Dunedin 
• West Coast of the South Island
• Kai Iwi Lakes
• Rakiura / Stewart Island

This is of course complimented by the places our Kiwi conversations suggested visiting this summer.  Here are the top 10 special places to visit this summer according to our One Picture Kiwi conversations:

• Queenstown
• Milford Sound
• Rotorua
• Coromandel
• South Island 
• Northland / Far North
• Auckland and Waiheke
• Taupo / Kinloch / Huka Falls
• Bay of Islands
• Marlborough Sounds

There were some other very specific spots too including Nugget Point / Curio Bay, the Waitomo caves, Golden Bay / Pupu Springs, Central Otago and Cape Reinga.  All worthy spots in our opinion.  

Our team have also shared what’s on their list this summer which includes:

• Omaha Beach
• The family farm in Hokitika
• Waiheke Island
• The Laneway Festival, and
• Coopers Beach

So, it looks like the classic beach holiday now also includes lakes, rivers, and a great mix of rural and urban destinations. No matter where you go though, being squashed in the car with family or friends is the heart of a Kiwi summer. Of course, there are the quintessential things to do on a road trip, aside from argue about the music. After all who hasn’t played car bingo, tried to tear a Mintie wrapper as long as possible or counted yellow cars (if you know, you know) on a trip? 

We also asked what the snack of choice is for a Kiwi roadie. We are proud to announce the top three Kiwi classics were Chips (31%), Lollies (17%) and of course the Pie/Sausage Roll (14%).  

And when we get to our destination what are we craving about summer holidays? Overall, we want to spend time with friends and family (34%).  36% of our participants were families with children of all ages and we know as life becomes increasingly hectic, with this year having had several challenges for Kiwi families, we really value time together at a slower pace.  

After the patchy summer of 22/23 Kiwis are really looking forward to going to the beach (24%) and with sports featuring as a favourite summer activity, we know swimming is one of the top choices. Remember to swim between the flags though.

With the huge surge in Book Tok and the like we also are seeing reading as a preferred activity this year. We hope our Tamariki are all getting some good reading in over the holidays too. 

We asked around our office to see what our team had in the “to be read” pile and the following books were at the top of the summer reading list:

• Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing – Matthew Perry
• Good Strategy Bad Strategy: The Difference and Why it Matters – Richard Rumelt
• The Secret Life of Sunflowers – Dana Marton writing as Marta Molnar
• Brandsplaining: Why Marketing is (Still) Sexist and How to Fix It. – Jane Cunningham and Philippa Roberts
• Lessons in Chemistry – Bonnie Garmus

Of course, some people are just looking to catch up on some sleep (3%), so we wish them a peaceful and relaxing break. On that note, the One Picture team wish you a safe and happy summer break and we look forward to seeing you again in the New Year.

Summer closure: 22 December 2023 – 10 January 2024