by Shawna Huffman Owen, President & CEO

New Zealand has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. As our kids are getting older, I am becoming very aware that their extended breaks are limited. So this past Spring Break, we decided to take the plunge, travel the distance, and spend two weeks exploring New Zealand.

It was a trip like none other. No one wanted to leave!

We found the people and landscapes captivating. Every day brought a new adventure whether it involved hiking, fishing, helicoptering to a glacier, jet boating, tagging the endangered Kiwi birds or wine tasting – we were busy all the time.

The uniqueness of this trip was that despite endless activities, we were all equally engaged every day, and we never felt rushed or tired. The pace of life in New Zealand is just right. At the end of each day, we returned to one of the many luxury lodges that are scattered around the country. These are among the world’s most extraordinary places to rest your head. Not only are the settings ridiculously beautiful, but the genuine hospitality makes you feel as if you’re at home. The service and food are exceptional — world class, yet not fussy at all. Most evenings, we were presented with mutli-course dinners that reflected the local offerings and were welcomed in our smart casual attire (think Colorado-chic: fancy clothes not required!).

To make the trip even more appealing to all (kids especially), packing was easy. We spent most days in active wear (Lululemons and sneakers). We brought layers and were glad we did – New Zealand really can present 4 seasons in one day.

We are ready to go back... and I’m sure we will!