Diary of an Adventurer

You may have heard that Christchurch experienced three major aftershocks today 23 December. The Wilderness base and team were unaffected by the quakes and we remain open and fully operational. The Christchurch airport was closed briefly while full safety checks were conducted but has now reopened and flights have resumed. While further damage has been done to some already damaged buildings, lives have been spared and injuries are minimal. As in the aftermath of February and September 10 quakes, we recommend to Wilderness hirers to collect your campervan as planned and head out of Christchurch. The effects of the quake are very localised to Christchurch itself. The surrounding areas as well as the remainder of the South Island are unaffected. For more information, go to http://www.christchurchnz.com/plan-your-visit/christchurch-earthquake-update.aspx. The Wilderness team have a very warm welcome in store. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

The Wilderness base in Christchurch continues to operate normally since the Christchurch earthquake on February 22. While part of the central city is still cordoned off, the wider Christchurch and Canterbury region continues to welcome visitors. Some tourism operators in the central business district are not operating but most operators outside the area are. All services in other parts of Canterbury including favourite destinations such as Akaroa, Kaikoura, Mackenzie Country and Hanmer Springs are operating normally. If you're wondering what you can do to help the people of Christchurch, the answer is "visit". Your visit will contribute to the vital funds needed to rebuild this beautiful city. For more information about the earthquake, planning your visit, and what you can do to help, click here. If you'd like to see a Base Jumper 2 in action in the South Island through the eyes of Wilderness adventurers, click here. Professional videographer and amateur travelling comedian Edward Suhadi made a wonderful video of his Wilderness adventure of the South Island last winter. He captured incredible footage of the breathtaking scenery he and his lovely wife discovered during their Base Jumper campervan tour. This could be you! Just enter your trip dates in the Quote/Book tool on the right side of this page to begin the process.

It's now two weeks since a severe earthquake hit New Zealand's second largest city. News reports contain fewer stories of disaster and despair and more of hope, courage and determination. Most residents now have power and water, some schools have reopened, and the 'no-go' zone in the central city is about to be significantly reduced allowing many more people to start picking up the pieces. Wilderness has been operating with minimal disruption since the quake struck. Our base is located away from the affected areas so we continue to welcome our customers in the same manner that has earned us our unrivalled reputation. For more information, click here. Friends and strangers all over the world having been asking how can they help. You can have the biggest impact on Christchurch's recovery by visiting New Zealand. The quake damage is limited to a small area - mostly central Christchurch. The rest of the Canterbury region and New Zealand are open and ready to give you a truly memorable holiday. Your visit will help keep the people of Christchurch employed and contribute to the funds so essential to rebuild this beautiful city. To read more about the earthquake, planning your visit, and what you can do to help, click here.