Read Ranch & Coast Virtually Anywhere
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E LIVE AT THE OTHER END of the state, but my husband and I stay connected to the members of our family up north through our mutual love of travel. Over the years, we've journeyed around the globe together and, in the process, built lifelong memories and a durable bond. Away from our usual routines, we have time to play, enjoy meaningful conversations, and discover new cultures. is travel bonus is just as true if your children are young and still living at home. A shared experience in new surroundings is a great way to refresh a relationship. Where? It's my home-away-from-home so I may be prejudiced, but I'm pretty sure New Zealand is one of the best destinations for family travel. On the North Island, the 14-acre Hobbiton movie set was used for making e Lord of the Rings trilogy and e Hobbit trilogy, and tours are offered daily. e set is located on a farm in the beautiful Waikato district and not far from a series of fascinating caves where the interiors are lit by tiny glowworms. e Waitomo Caves are the best known, but my personal favorites are the non-touristy Spellbound Caves in the same area. Detour destinations HOBBITON: PHOTO BY SARA ORME, HOBBITON e Gift of Family Travel ere's no better holiday present than a shared experience BY ELIZABETH HANSEN W @ranchandcoast ranchandcoast.com 112 DECEMBER 2022 RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson chose the setting of Hobbiton from an aerial tour The Manse is a luxury lodge in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand