New Zealand trip with mom: Our last adventure
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I was in Hong Kong, on my way to meet Mom in Malaysia for a New Zealand trip with Mom we’d been planning, when I got the call that changed everything. “Esther, Mom has stage four lung cancer.”
The call hit me like a ton of bricks. Sitting in the airport, jet-lagged and in disbelief, I knew this marked the beginning of a painful chapter. My mom, who had never smoked and always lived a healthy lifestyle, had been diagnosed during a routine checkup. Though doctors gave her just four months to live, we were blessed with two more years together.
“To travel is to live.”
– Hans Christian Andersen
That trip to New Zealand became our final shared adventure. At 17, my parents sent me to college in America. It was my first experience living in a foreign country alone, and being so far from my family, especially my mom, was incredibly challenging.
Over the years, I built my life in the USA and eventually migrated there. However, despite my accomplishments, I often felt a deep regret—I wished I had spent more time with my parents.
Though we had planned another trip to Japan a few months before her passing, we had to cancel because she could no longer fly. Despite the pain of that season, I am deeply grateful for the time we spent together exploring one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Preparing the New Zealand Trip with Mom
Our journey began with a flight from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Auckland, New Zealand, with a layover in Melbourne, Australia. We flew with Air Asia, a reliable and budget-friendly airline that partners with Virgin Airlines. One of their unique offerings is the option to upgrade to the silent zone—a quieter section with curtains for added comfort—and that’s exactly what we did.
During the flight, I glanced over at Mom, who was sleeping by the window seat, she looked so uncomfortable, and it hit me: life is too short not to make small upgrades when you can afford them.
Initially, we had booked economy seats, but seeing her discomfort, I called Dad and arranged for an upgrade on the next flight. It wasn’t just about the seats—it was about doing something meaningful for someone I deeply cared about.
Exploring New Zealand
Auckland
When we arrived in Auckland, a friend kindly picked us up, and we stayed at their home for a few nights. It was comforting to be surrounded by familiar faces, and we spent our time catching up, exploring the area, and soaking in the natural beauty around us.
Queenstown
Travel & Accomondation
From Auckland, we took a Jet Star flight to Queenstown and spent three nights at the cozy Blue Peaks Hotel. This hotel was more than just a place to stay—it became a special part of the trip. It was here that Mom and I spent quiet moments together, cooking meals, catching up, and simply resting. The hotel’s location was ideal, within walking distance of several great spots, and we enjoyed daily walks through the charming surroundings.
Activities in New Zealand
Queenstown: Skyline Gondola
Queenstown is one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever visited and solidified New Zealand as one of my top five favorite countries.
One of the highlights was the Skyline Gondola ride, which offers some of the most stunning views in the world. At the top, Mom and I had a feast at the Stratosfare Restaurant, where we were both awestruck by the panoramic views of Queenstown’s natural beauty.
The combination of the gondola ride and dining experience is unforgettable and highly recommended for anyone visiting Queenstown. You can book the Skyline Gondola and Restaurant experience here.
Excursion to Milford Sound
From Queenstown, we booked a full-day coach and cruise tour to Milford Sound, often referred to as the “eighth wonder of the world.” The tour included a scenic 7-hour drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound, showcasing some of the most spectacular landscapes in New Zealand.
Once we arrived, we enjoyed a stunning cruise through the fjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. The entire experience was unforgettable, offering breathtaking views and a sense of awe that only Milford Sound can provide.
For more details, visit and book the tour here.
Visiting The Hobbiton in Auckland
Mom and I flew back to Auckland to visit Hobbiton, and it was truly a magical experience.
We joined Kiwi Fun Tours for the day trip from Auckland, even though I’d only seen one of the Lord of the Rings films. The scenic drive was spectacular, with landscapes that took my breath away.
If you’re in New Zealand, a visit to Hobbiton is a must! It’s only an hour’s drive from Auckland.
Book your tour here
New Zealand Trip with Mom: Conclusion
This New Zealand trip with mom journey holds deep emotional significance for me. I’m incredibly thankful for the time I had with my mom before she passed away two years later. It was a gift to travel together. Cherish the moments with your loved ones—though I find comfort in knowing my parents are watching over me from Heaven, I still carry the weight of wishing I had spent even more time with them.
Find Your Michelangelo
Michelangelo, the renowned sculptor, was once asked how he could turn an ugly piece of formless stone into an amazing masterpiece that millions of people will travel the world to see. His response was, “Because there is an angel in there, and I will carve until I set him free.”
Every one of us was once like the formless marble slab, lifeless, aimless, until one day we meet the Michelangelo of our lives to set us free. It might have been your parents, your teacher, your mentor, or a virtual mentor. The beauty of the art of being mentored is a book or a click away. We must initiate that journey. We must be hungry enough. We live in a culture where knowledge is all around us. Develop that desire within you for more.
When I am at work daily, my mentors will come to me and make a remark or comment. It may be something that I need to work on, or a compliment. Their words are like the chisel in the hands of Michelangelo, chipping away to make me a better person. Moments like these are what I crave because they assure me that I am on the right path.
When I go through moments in life where I need guidance, I hear my parents voice within me, guiding me. It’s the memories with them that have at times walked me through difficult moments. When I travel, I feel my parents the strongest.
