Become your own Backyard Traveller.
New Zealand is an exceptional backyard with so much to…
Explore. Inspire. Enjoy.

Backyard Traveller Circle.png

Backyard Traveller is my travel blog, borne out of the dramatic events of 2020. I am a lifetime traveller, mostly overseas, but to satisfy my yearn to explore I have turned inward and exploring our glorious shores. I’d love this blog to act as an inspiration and encouragement to others to explore our beautiful and unique country, New Zealand.
Especially in this time of uncertainty and for the first time in my lifetime the borders are closed and we can’t travel the world with ease. New Zealand has so many amazing opportunities to explore the cities, our coastlines, mountains and adventure beyond, into nature.
Travelling with kids can be especially challenging, but we’ve found, especially rewarding. Never one to underestimate our kids we’ve had many adventures as they’ve grown and have hiked, biked, kayaked, canoed, boated, trains, planes and automobiles to places exotic and now within our borders. They’ve loved (most of) it, hated some of it and been well over it plenty. But we have taken these explorations as a family and have so many beautiful memories to ruminate and build upon.
Get out there, with your kids and make the most of their genuine curiousity and enthusiasm for life and adventure. It might just enhance your own Backyard Traveller experience!

Family Hauraki Rail Trail Weekend
Jessica Jenkins Jessica Jenkins

Family Hauraki Rail Trail Weekend

Whilst we had a wonderful time on our own on the Hauraki Rail Trail we knew we had to take the kids. And doing that was wonderful! A totally different experience, and a great family getaway.

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The journey begins…
Jessica Jenkins Jessica Jenkins

The journey begins…

Backyard Traveller is my passion. My family and I are passionate travellers and love nothing more than packing our bags and heading off for an ‘adventure’.

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Five Firm Family Lunch Faves
Jessica Jenkins Jessica Jenkins

Five Firm Family Lunch Faves

Exploring your own city can be just as rewarding. We are especially spoilt with the amazing food options available in Auckland.

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Family Trips
Jessica Jenkins Jessica Jenkins

Family Trips

Part of the joy of being a Backyard Traveller in New Zealand has been showing our two crazy kids the ropes and the amazing things that surround them. We have travelled with our kids across the seas and exposed them to many different cultures. But the excitement of exploring New Zealand with them is real.

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